LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
The Brisbane Broncos are set to have Brendan Piakura available for their upcoming preliminary final. This news comes after the second-rower was unable to play in the latter half of Brisbane's qualifying final against the Canberra Raiders due to a suspected facial fracture.
If the injury had been confirmed, Piakura, who was initially chosen after Jack Gosiewski at the start of the season, could have faced a recovery period of a month or more. However, reports from AAP indicate that following a consultation with a specialist, he has now been cleared to participate in the preliminary final.
The Broncos will compete in the preliminary final on Sunday, September 28, at Suncorp Stadium, facing either the Penrith Panthers or Canterbury Bulldogs. The winner will secure a place in the following week's grand final at Homebush.
In preparation for the match, the Broncos will see at least two changes to their lineup. Billy Walters has been ruled out for the season due to an ACL injury, and Patrick Carrigan is facing suspension after being charged with a Grade 2 offense for a high tackle.
Xavier Willison is expected to step in for Carrigan following confirmation that he has recovered from a broken arm. Additionally, Adam Reynolds will return to the team to take over Walters' position, allowing Ben Hunt to move from halfback to the five-eighth role.