LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
Mal Meninga, the Kangaroos coach, supports the Brisbane Broncos' decision to exclude Ezra Mam from their lineup for the upcoming NRL match against the South Sydney Rabbitohs.
Mam, who was serving a nine-game suspension for a drug-driving incident that also resulted in a six-month driving disqualification and significant fines, was available for selection after his ban.
Details surrounding Mam's incident revealed that he crashed into an Uber carrying a mother, child, and driver, leading to criticisms regarding the leniency of his punishment.
Despite public sentiment, including boos from the Suncorp Stadium crowd during Magic Round, Mam will instead play for the Souths Logan Magpies in the Queensland Cup this weekend.
Broncos legend and club director Darren Lockyer had previously cautioned that Mam's absence from game time could necessitate a gradual reintroduction into the NRL.
Meninga echoed this sentiment, stating that it was a wise decision by coach Maguire to give Mam time to regain match fitness before returning to first-grade football.
"Ezra has obviously proved himself at the elite level," Meninga commented.
"He's a great player...
If you have been a consistent first grader, of course you just want to jump back into the first team.
It's up to what the coach thinks and what he believes is good for the team.
It would be good to have Ezra back because he's an enthusiastic player and he has that high speed game.
I reckon he plays just one game in the Queensland Cup and then he will come back."
Overall, the Broncos' tactical awareness in managing Mam's return reflects a cautious yet strategic approach, emphasizing player development and team dynamics.