Shockwaves are rippling through the NRL as a beloved star reveals a surprising move that could redefine his role for the upcoming season!
In a revelation that has NRL fans buzzing, veteran playmaker Ben Hunt has disclosed that he will be starting on the bench for the highly anticipated World Club Challenge against Hull KR. This decision, shared by Hunt himself, might just be dropping a significant hint about his position and impact for the Brisbane Broncos in the 2026 season.
The seasoned halfback, who expertly juggled roles between the halves and hooker last year, playing a pivotal part in ending the Broncos' premiership drought, is set to take the field against the Super League champions on Friday (AEDT). The Broncos squad has been braving the UK's chilly climes since last week, gearing up for this prestigious clash – a challenge that has proven elusive for Australian teams since the pandemic.
But here's where it gets controversial... While many might expect a star player of Hunt's caliber to be in the starting lineup, his willingness to come off the bench signals a potential shift in team strategy. Speaking on 4BC Breakfast, the 35-year-old admitted the freezing temperatures were a factor, but his primary focus was on contributing wherever needed. "I'm just laying up in the room, trying to stay warm... I think it was one degree here today and felt like minus two or something like that," Hunt shared. He even humorously mentioned telling coach Michael Maguire, "because I'm coming off the bench, that I'm gonna be up in the dressing room and send me a radio call when you need me to go on."
This strategic move likely means that Cory Paix or the exciting young talent Blake Mozer will be tasked with the crucial dummy-half duties. Hunt is widely expected to feature more prominently at hooker this season, with Ezra Mam and Adam Reynolds likely to occupy the halves. However, his versatility could also see him slotting in as a bench utility, especially with Billy Walters sidelined due to an ACL injury.
And this is the part most people miss... While the World Club Challenge is a significant pre-season fixture, Hunt emphasized the Broncos' serious approach to the game, fueled by the recent defeats of Penrith in the last two years. "We're definitely taking it really seriously," he stated. "For the last three or four weeks, it's all Madge has been drilling into us, so we're not coming over here for a holiday, we're preparing really hard and know it's gonna be tough. The last few games of the World Club Challenge, England have had the wood over us, so it's up to us to get one back."
Hunt, entering the final year of his contract with the Broncos, is widely anticipated to extend his stay through to 2027. With 355 first-grade games under his belt, he's steadily climbing the all-time appearances list, with only Cameron Smith (430) ahead of him if he remains healthy for another season. When asked about this milestone, Hunt remained humble: "It definitely would be wonderful to have, but not something I'm motivated by. I've always said that as long as I'm healthy and feel like I can play some good football and offer something of use to the team, I'd always want to play on. I love the game, I love being around this club and teammates and everything it offers. As long as I'm healthy and playing well, I'm more than keen to play on."
The Broncos' crucial clash against Hull KR is set to kick off at 6:30 am AEDT on Friday morning. The formidable Hull KR squad boasts several familiar faces from the NRL, including Peta Hiku, Tom Amone, Tyrone May, Sauaso Sue, Karl Lawton, and Rhyse Martin.
Brisbane Broncos World Club Challenge Squad: Grant Anderson, Patrick Carrigan, Jack Gosiewski, Payne Haas, Ben Hunt, Jaiyden Hunt, Corey Jensen, Josiah Karapani, Ezra Mam, Deine Mariner, Blake Mozer, Cory Paix, Adam Reynolds, Jordan Riki, Gehamat Shibasaki, Kotoni Staggs, Ben Talty, Aublix Tawha, Reece Walsh, Xavier Willison.
What do you think about Ben Hunt's decision to come off the bench? Is this a sign of a brilliant tactical move by the Broncos, or does it raise questions about his role in the team's future? Share your thoughts in the comments below – we'd love to hear your take!
