Broncos Set to Block Arthars’ Move to Titans Amidst Squad Shake-Up
The Brisbane Broncos are reportedly poised to prevent winger Jesse Arthars from making an immediate switch to the Gold Coast Titans, a development that casts a shadow over the player’s immediate future and presents a significant hurdle for both clubs. This decision comes as the Broncos prepare to face Hull KR in the World Club Challenge in England, a fixture for which Arthars was notably absent from the extended squad.
The absence from the World Club Challenge squad appears to be a consequence of the Broncos securing the services of Melbourne Storm back, Grant Anderson, for the upcoming season. Anderson’s arrival seems to have shifted Arthars down the pecking order in a Broncos backline already brimming with talent. This situation has left the 27-year-old’s game time prospects uncertain, fuelling speculation about his next move.
While the Gold Coast Titans, under new coach Josh Hannay, were understood to be keen on acquiring Arthars and had been making significant squad adjustments, it now appears their pursuit will be thwarted. Reports from The Courier Mail indicate that the Broncos are resolute in their decision to block Arthars’ transfer to their Queensland rivals. Arthars still has a year remaining on his current contract with the Broncos and is a well-regarded figure within the team’s changerooms. However, this creates a standoff between the two rival Queensland clubs, with the Broncos unwilling to part with the talented winger.
The Broncos are set to commence their season this week with the World Club Challenge clash against Hull KR. In contrast, the Titans have a few more weeks to wait before their Round 1 encounter against the Cronulla Sharks. Should Arthars’ move be denied, it would mark yet another setback for the flyer. Beyond his omission from the World Club Challenge squad, Arthars also missed selection for the Indigenous All-Stars game. Although he featured last year, his reduced game time with the Broncos in the current season led to him being overlooked for the 2026 fixture. Furthermore, Arthars was not part of the Broncos’ victorious NRL Grand Final 17 against the Melbourne Storm, having been named as the 18th man for the premiership-winning side.
Mikey Lewis Cleared for World Club Challenge After Escaping Ban
In a separate but related development concerning the World Club Challenge, Hull KR’s star player Mikey Lewis has been cleared to play after receiving a fine for an on-field incident. Lewis had been facing the prospect of a suspension from the game’s disciplinary committee, which would have ruled him out of the crucial clash against the Brisbane Broncos.
The incident in question occurred during Hull KR’s recent Super League match, a narrow 19-18 loss where Lewis was sin-binned for 10 minutes after sticking out his leg and tripping rival halfback Liam Harris. The club had been anxiously awaiting the outcome of the disciplinary review to determine if their key playmaker would be available for their first title opportunity of 2026. However, Hull KR has since confirmed that Lewis was only issued a fine and will therefore be eligible to face the reigning NRL premiers in the UK on Friday. This news provides a significant boost for Hull KR as they prepare for their highly anticipated showdown.
