LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy

From Broncos triallist to Ashes bolter: Shibasaki earns 'Roos call-up

Brisbane centre Gehamat Shibasaki expressed gratitude to Michael Maguire for revitalizing his career after beginning the season on a train-and-trial contract and concluding it with both a premiership title and a Kangaroo jersey.

At 27, Shibasaki didn't hold an NRL contract when the season began but was granted an opportunity by Maguire. Throughout the year, he participated in 25 out of 55 matches, having debuted in 2018.

In a thrilling 26-22 grand final victory over the Storm, Shibasaki was a standout player, scoring two tries. His impressive performance also led to a Queensland Origin selection, and he is now poised to make his Test debut at Wembley on October 25.

Shibasaki made his NRL debut with the Broncos in 2018 and was later chosen to represent the Prime Minister's XIII against Papua New Guinea.