Madge’s Hunt Hint After Surprise Bench Call

Hunt’s Flexible Role Key for Broncos Ahead of World Club Challenge

The Brisbane Broncos are gearing up for a significant challenge as they prepare to face English champions Hull KR in the World Club Challenge. Amidst the anticipation, veteran playmaker Ben Hunt has dropped a hint about his role this season, sparking discussion about how coach Michael Maguire plans to utilise his experience.

Last season, Hunt found himself splitting his time between the halves and the hooker position. However, for this crucial international clash, the 35-year-old is set to come off the bench, with Cory Paix confirmed to start at dummy-half. The Broncos squad has been in the United Kingdom since last week, immersing themselves in the preparation for a match that has proven elusive for Australian sides since the pandemic.

Speaking on local radio, Hunt shared his unique approach to his bench role. “I’m just laying up in the room, trying to stay warm,” he quipped, describing the chilly UK conditions. “I actually said to Madge [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 light-hearted comment underscores Hunt’s adaptable attitude and willingness to contribute wherever needed.

The strategic deployment of Hunt is a subject of keen interest, especially with Ezra Mam and Adam Reynolds expected to occupy the halves. The potential for Hunt to feature more prominently at hooker this season is amplified by the unfortunate ACL injury sidelining Billy Walters. This opens up a utility role for Hunt on the bench, offering Maguire valuable flexibility.

Coach Michael Maguire, while remaining tight-lipped about specific long-term plans for the 2026 campaign, acknowledged that Hunt’s role could be a fluid one. “That’s gonna keep evolving,” Maguire stated when addressing the media prior to the game. “At some stage we will change, whether I feel it’s the right thing to do or whether the team feels it’s the right thing to do. Having the ability of someone like Hunty to come off the bench is pretty handy for us.” This suggests that Hunt’s impact may be felt differently from week to week, depending on the opposition and the team’s tactical needs.

Beyond the immediate focus on the World Club Challenge, the Broncos are drawing motivation from recent history. Hunt admitted that the defeats suffered by Penrith in the past two World Club Challenge encounters would serve as a driving force for his team. “We’re definitely taking it really seriously,” Hunt emphasised. “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.” This sentiment highlights the team’s collective desire to reclaim dominance on the international stage and reverse the recent trend.

Hunt’s commitment to the Broncos appears strong, with the veteran entering the final year of his current contract. There is a strong expectation that he will re-sign for the 2027 season as well, a testament to his continued value to the club. With 355 first-grade games already to his name, Hunt is on track to climb the all-time appearance charts. Should he navigate another season unscathed, he would only trail Cameron Smith (430 games) in the record books.

When asked about this potential milestone, Hunt remained characteristically humble. “It definitely would be wonderful to have, but not something I’m motivated by,” he said. “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.” His passion for the sport and his team is evident, suggesting he’ll continue to be a formidable presence for years to come.

The World Club Challenge clash between the Brisbane Broncos and Hull KR is scheduled to kick off at 6:30 am AEDT on Friday morning. The English outfit boasts a formidable lineup, featuring several former NRL players, including Peta Hiku, Tom Amone, Tyrone May, Sauaso Sue, Karl Lawton, and Rhyse Martin, underscoring the significant challenge that awaits the Broncos.