LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
In a classic case of 'no pain, no gain', Brisbane Broncos have been forced to sideline star forward Payne Haas for their upcoming showdown with Penrith, despite his initial inclusion in Kevin Walters' squad earlier this week.
Addressing the media with a touch of disappointment on Wednesday, Walters confirmed that Haas will be sitting out the grand final rematch against the Panthers due to some troublesome knee pain.
However, the coach reassured fans that surgery is not on the cards for Haas, as scans have shown no major issues - it's just a matter of time before he's back in action.
Stepping up to fill the void left by Haas, Xavier Willison has been given the nod in Walters' finalized lineup, with Fletcher Baker expected to step into the starting role in the forward pack.
The Broncos will be looking to these players to bring their A-game and hold the line against the reigning premiers in what promises to be a fierce battle on the field.
As the countdown to kick-off begins, all eyes will be on the Broncos as they prepare to take on the Panthers without one of their key players.
Will they rise to the challenge and emerge victorious, or will Penrith prove too strong to overcome? Only time will tell in this epic clash of Rugby League titans.