Cobbo Set for Emotional Suncorp Stadium Return Against Former Club
Selwyn Cobbo, a name synonymous with the Brisbane Broncos for five seasons, is poised to step back onto Suncorp Stadium this Friday night, but this time, he’ll be donning the colours of the Dolphins, facing his former teammates for the very first time. The young flyer from Cherbourg, blessed with an exceptional physical toolkit, carved out a memorable career with the Broncos, notching an impressive 49 tries in 83 appearances. Once earmarked as the club’s next genuine superstar, Cobbo’s trajectory took an unexpected turn last season, ultimately finding himself in reserve grade.
This shift in fortunes led to a one-year deal with the Dolphins, Brisbane’s NRL rivals, a move driven by the Broncos’ salary cap constraints. Now, the stage is set for a fiery “Battle for Brisbane,” with both clubs entering the clash buoyed by strong performances in round three.
“I can’t wait to play against my old club. I’m pretty excited. Can’t wait,” Cobbo expressed with a grin after crossing for a try in the Dolphins’ commanding victory over the Sharks last Saturday. Reflecting on his journey, he added, “Growing up, I always wanted to play for the Broncos, but, you know, it is what it is. I’m just excited to play against my old club, my old teammates. We’re mates off the field, but on the field, it’s time to go to work. I’ve got to do what’s best for my team.”
Despite the narrative of having something to prove, Cobbo remains grounded. He watched from the sidelines as his former Broncos teammates lifted the premiership trophy last year, and he insists there’s no added pressure to perform this weekend. “It’s only the start of the year, so there’s more to come,” he stated. “I’m just still trying to find my rhythm in this team and where I can fit in. The time will come, and I can’t wait for that moment.”
While some players might engage in social media banter with former colleagues, Cobbo prefers to let his actions on the field speak for themselves. For the 23-year-old former State of Origin representative, this match carries a significant emotional weight.
A New Chapter with the Dolphins
“I’ll just wait until we’re on the field. I’m not really a banter guy,” Cobbo admitted. “I’m just excited. Facing my old club and old teammates will be fun. They’ve done a lot for me, and I just can’t wait to go on the field and have a good game.”
His transition to the Dolphins appears to have been seamless, with Cobbo feeling an immediate sense of belonging. “Since day one, the boys at the Dolphins accepted me with open arms, and it’s been fun ever since I’ve been here. I’m enjoying the trip – no, I’m loving it. The boys are good, they look after me, and I look after them.”
Farnworth’s Praise for Cobbo’s Resilience
Adding another layer to this intriguing contest is the reunion of Herbie Farnworth and Cobbo. The pair shared the Broncos’ backline in the 2023 Grand Final and have now reformed a potent partnership on the left edge for the Dolphins, with Farnworth excelling at left centre.
Farnworth has been a vocal supporter of Cobbo’s move and his ability to adapt. “He’s happy here at the Dolphins, so I think it’s showing on the footy field,” Farnworth commented. “I finally got him a little bit of good ball, so he scored a very impressive try at the end. That’s what he can do. He’s a freaky player.” This camaraderie and shared history between Farnworth and Cobbo promise to be a significant attacking threat for the Dolphins as they look to build on their early-season momentum. The battle for Brisbane is shaping up to be more than just a game; it’s a narrative of a talented player seeking new horizons and rekindling old connections in a high-stakes environment.
