LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
The Brisbane Broncos have secured a new addition for the 2026 NRL season by signing a promising young forward from the Queensland Cup.
Popular among fans of the Burleigh Bears, front-rower Takitau Mapapalangi has signed a six-week train-and-trial contract with the Broncos ahead of their pre-season, according to The Courier-Mail.
Mapapalangi aims to emulate centre Gehamat Shibasaki's success as he seeks to impress coach Michael Maguire at Red Hill, benefiting from training alongside established players like Payne Haas and Xavier Willison.
While his current commitment involves less than two months of training, there is potential for an extension should he perform well during this period.
Last season, he showcased his skills by scoring six tries in seven matches for Burleigh, earning the title of Rookie of the Year. He also registered 45 tackle busts, completed 177 tackles, and averaged 75 running metres per game.