LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
Michael Maguire faces challenges in his forward pack as Jack Gosiewski is set to miss the remainder of the NRL season due to a broken collarbone that required surgery. This comes amid discussions about resting "Origin star Patrick Carrigan." Despite the setback, the Broncos celebrated a 38-28 victory against the Dolphins, keeping their top eight position intact, largely thanks to standout performances from Reece Walsh.
Gosiewski attempted to play through his injury but had to leave the field early in the match. The Broncos have not specified a return timeline for him post-surgery; however, 'NRL Physio' Brien Seeney indicated that recovery typically takes between four to eight weeks. It seems likely that Gosiewski has played his last regular-season game, although there remains a slight chance he could return for the NRL finals.
This injury adds to the Broncos' ongoing injury woes, increasing the pressure on Maguire to find replacements. Alongside Gosiewski, Xavier Willison (broken arm) and Ben Te Kura (foot) are unavailable for selection this weekend. While Brendan Piakura is the natural choice to step into the second row, he has missed the past two weeks due to concussion. Alternatively, Jaiyden Hunt replaced Gosiewski against the Dolphins and could start against the Knights.
Maguire's challenges are further compounded by the absence of Adam Reynolds, Ezra Mam, and Selwyn Cobbo. While Reynolds may return during the finals, the outlook for Mam and Cobbo is grim, as they are likely out for the season. With the looming match against the Knights, a slip-up could jeopardize their top-eight standing, making Gosiewski's injury even more problematic. Consequently, it hampers Maguire's ability to rest some of his State of Origin stars, with calls for Carrigan to regain peak form ahead of the finals.