Brisbane legend Darren Lockyer has accidentally leaked a possible shock in the Broncos’ selection before this week’s major derby

Brisbane sporting icon Darren Lockyer has inadvertently revealed a potential surprise in the Broncos’ lineup ahead of their crucial derby match this week. The Brisbane Broncos will face the Dolphins on Saturday in a game that could determine both teams’ chances of reaching the finals. The result will either end the loser’s finals aspirations or keep the winner’s hopes alive.

The stakes are high, and Brisbane coach Kevin Walters might be planning a strategic move to outmaneuver his former mentor, Wayne Bennett. A significant development is the status of star prop Payne Haas, who has been out for three weeks due to a foot injury.

In an unexpected move, Walters has named Haas in jersey No. 22 for the match, despite uncertainty about his readiness. This decision has led to speculation about Haas’s possible return. Lockyer, speaking on Wide World of Sports’ QLDER, hinted that Haas might play, even though jersey No. 22 typically indicates a player won’t participate in such a crucial game.

Lockyer suggested that Haas could indeed be a game-changer if the match is as intense as anticipated. When asked by fellow rugby league legend Wally Lewis, Lockyer hinted with a smile that Haas had trained recently and had one final session before the game. He mentioned that while Haas might have been initially reserved for the following week’s match against Melbourne, his potential availability this week could significantly impact the game.

Haas’s return would be a major boost for a Broncos team struggling with injuries this season. As a four-time Dally M Prop of the Year and five-time best and fairest winner, Haas’s presence would lift the team’s morale and performance.

Brisbane needs a win to stay in the finals race after a disappointing season, having narrowly missed out on the premiership last year. The Dolphins, who started the season strongly, have recently struggled. This match is crucial for both teams, with the game promising to be a dramatic, high-energy contest. Bennett, now coaching the Dolphins, will be eager to secure a win over his former team, adding extra intensity to the encounter. The game is expected to be electric, with both teams determined to grab the vital points needed to keep their finals hopes alive.