Rugby League Great’s Bold Prediction: Will Adam Reynolds’ Return Hamper Reece Walsh’s Magic?
The highly anticipated “Battle of Brisbane” between the Broncos and the Dolphins this Friday night is set to feature a significant tactical shift for the Broncos, with star halfback Adam Reynolds making his return from a rib injury. This homecoming for Reynolds, however, has sparked debate among rugby league pundits, with some predicting it could impact the electric form of fullback Reece Walsh.
Legendary playmaker Andrew Johns has weighed in on the matter, suggesting that Reynolds’ return might actually create less space for Walsh to operate. Johns, speaking on the ‘Immortal Behaviour’ podcast, highlighted the distinct playing styles of Reynolds and the player he’s replacing at halfback, Ben Hunt.
The Reynolds vs. Hunt Dynamic: A Tale of Two Halves
Johns’ core argument centres on how each halfback influences the defensive line and, consequently, the opportunities available for the Broncos’ outside backs, particularly Walsh.
Adam Reynolds’ Passing Prowess: Johns noted that Reynolds is primarily a pass-first playmaker. His exceptional passing game, which involves moving the ball laterally with great skill, tends to keep the defenders around the ruck less pressured. This can allow the defensive line to “slide” more effectively, closing down space out wide and potentially limiting Walsh’s involvement. When Reynolds is at halfback, the markers – the defenders immediately behind the ruck – don’t feel the same pressure to commit to the play, enabling them to get out to the fullback more readily.
Ben Hunt’s Running Threat: In contrast, Johns described Ben Hunt as more of a “run-first” option. While Hunt’s passing and kicking games might not be as celebrated as Reynolds’, his willingness to take on the defensive line himself forces defenders to remain more “honest” around the ruck. This constant threat of a run can tie up the defenders in the middle, creating mismatches and isolating players on the edges. According to Johns, this is where Walsh thrives, receiving more “quality ball” in open space.
Johns even pointed to a statistic: when Ben Hunt starts at No. 7 for the Broncos, the team boasts an impressive seven wins from seven games. This suggests a correlation between Hunt’s running game and the team’s attacking success, particularly in unlocking Walsh.
Can Reece Walsh Still Shine?
The question on many fans’ minds is whether Reece Walsh can maintain his dazzling performances with Reynolds back in the halves. While Walsh enjoyed a phenomenal run of form in the latter half of 2025, often with Hunt and Billy Walters steering the ship, it’s worth noting that Reynolds and Ezra Mam were also instrumental during the finals series, and Walsh continued to impress.
However, the Broncos’ tactical approach against the Dolphins will be closely scrutinised. Johns acknowledged that Broncos coach Michael Maguire faces a “real headache” when selecting his halves combination throughout the season, especially when all players are fit. He predicted that selection decisions might become “horses for courses” – meaning Maguire might pick his halves based on the opposition’s defensive strengths and weaknesses, or what best complements the chosen halfback’s style of play.
The return of Adam Reynolds undoubtedly strengthens the Broncos’ experience and tactical nous in the halves. Yet, the debate ignited by Andrew Johns raises an intriguing point about the flow of the game and whether the Broncos’ attacking structure will adapt to maximise the talents of both their experienced halfback and their electrifying fullback. The Battle of Brisbane is shaping up to be not just a clash of two Queensland clubs, but also a fascinating examination of tactical nuances in the modern game.
