LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
Kevin Walters has challenged the assertion made by fellow Broncos legend Gorden Tallis that Brisbane performs better without Adam Reynolds, emphasizing that the captain deserves to resume his starting position once he is fit from his hamstring injury. Brisbane has been impressive during Reynolds' absence and is poised to be without the skipper again for Sunday's NRL qualifying finals match against Canberra, as he was omitted from the Broncos' team lineup on Tuesday.
Reynolds participated in a training session with Michael Maguire's team on Saturday, intending to undergo a final fitness check on Tuesday to assess his readiness. However, he was not included in Maguire's squad, following Ben Hunt's comments to SEN radio indicating his intention to keep the halfback position for the upcoming clash with the Raiders.
"This week, I will definitely be wearing (the seven jersey)," Hunt stated on SEN. He added, "I don't think Adam (Reynolds) and the other generals will be back yet," referencing the additional hamstring injury to five-eighth Ezra Mam.
"The mail I'm getting is that after this week, they will all be right to go. I've heard they're getting pretty close. "Reynolds and Ezra I think are the main two who are probably the closest to coming back."
The Broncos, having finished the season in fourth place, will still have a double chance in the finals even if they lose to Canberra. Reynolds has hinted at being cautious with his hamstring injury, suggesting he might delay his return for one more week. If Brisbane secures a win against the Raiders, Maguire could face a significant selection dilemma concerning Reynolds' potential comeback.
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The Broncos have achieved four straight victories with their current halves pairing of Billy Walters and Hunt, who have been instrumental in bringing out the best in fullback Reece Walsh. Many observers believe that the Broncos' attack appears more dynamic without Reynolds, a sentiment supported by recent performances. The team has scored 30 points or more in their last four matches, including an impressive 16-point victory over Melbourne last week.