LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
Michael Maguire has promoted Ben Talty to the Broncos' 17 for his NRL debut against the Bulldogs, following injuries to Corey Jensen and Jesse Arthars.
This move comes amid a challenging period for the team, with both players unavailable due to training injuries.
The Broncos have managed to sidestep the State of Origin turmoil so far this season, benefiting from rest during both bye rounds.
However, the absence of Jensen and Arthars compounds the issues for Maguire as he prepares for a tough encounter against the Bulldogs.
Key players such as Payne Haas and Patrick Carrigan will miss the game due to their commitments with NSW and Queensland in the upcoming Origin decider.
Additionally, Queensland coach Billy Slater's surprising selection choices-featuring Gehamat Shibasaki in the centres and naming Reece Walsh as 18th man-further compound the Broncos' difficulties as both players will also be sidelined for the clash.
Arthars is out due to a rib injury sustained during training, while Jensen injured his calf, both leading to alterations in the lineup.
Delouise Hoeter is set to replace Arthars on the wing.
Jensen had previously been positioned in the starting front-row alongside Haas, allowing Carrigan to shift back to lock.
Talty's late-season acquisition becomes crucial for the Broncos as they strive to maintain a competitive edge.
Despite the Bulldogs also missing four key players due to Origin selections, they remain strong contenders, backed by impressive depth in their forward pack.
With these circumstances, Maguire is facing a significant challenge in assembling a team capable of competing effectively against the second-placed Bulldogs.