LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
Jamal Shibasaki, formerly of the North Queensland Cowboys, is reportedly set to receive an NRL opportunity with the Brisbane Broncos.
Shibasaki was part of a group of seven players released by the Cowboys at the conclusion of the 2025 season.
This group included notable names such as Jordan McLean (retired), Reece Robson (transferring to Sydney Roosters), Semi Valemei (joining Castleford Tigers), and Tom Duffy (also moving to the Broncos). Along with Shibasaki, Marly Bitungane and Nicholas Lenaz were left without contracts or connections to other teams.
However, it appears Shibasaki's NRL journey is set to continue, with News Corp reporting that the Broncos are likely to offer him a chance to keep playing professionally.
Joining the Broncos would reunite him with his brother Gehamat, who has had an impressive 2025 season. Gehamat's journey began with a train and trial deal, which led to him becoming a regular first-grade player. He has achieved a State of Origin debut and was part of the team that won the grand final. He is now preparing to represent Australia in the first Ashes Test against England at Wembley Stadium this Saturday.
At this moment, it's uncertain what type of contract the younger Shibasaki will receive at the Broncos, whether it will be a Top 30, development, or train and trial deal.
There's a possibility he may begin similarly to his brother, starting with a train and trial contract that pays around $1,200 per week. This would provide him the opportunity to impress coach Michael Maguire, who is known for making surprising roster decisions based on the performances observed during training.