Back from the Brink: Gehamat Shibasaki’s Incredible Rise to State of Origin Selection
Just over a year ago, Gehamat Shibasaki was battling for recognition in the Queensland Cup, his rugby league career seemingly fading into obscurity. Fast-forward to July 2025, and the 27-year-old is preparing for the biggest moment of his life — making his State of Origin debut for the Queensland Maroons on July 9.
Once tipped for stardom early in his career, Shibasaki’s journey has been anything but smooth. He was hailed as a rising talent, but a string of setbacks saw him drift into the shadows. Now, after a remarkable resurgence, he’s not just back — he’s front and centre on one of the sport’s grandest stages.
From Teen Prodigy to Forgotten Talent
Shibasaki, of Torres Strait Islander and Japanese heritage, first made his mark in 2016. That year, he starred for the Brisbane Broncos’ under-20s team, where he earned the club’s ‘Best Back’ award. His talent was undeniable, and he was quickly called up to represent Queensland at both under-18 and under-20 levels.
The following year, in 2017, he was invited to train with the Broncos’ top squad and featured in the Auckland Nines. In 2018, he made his NRL debut, playing a lone game for Brisbane, but showing enough promise to be selected for both the Junior Kangaroos and the Prime Minister’s XIII.
In 2019, Shibasaki played 12 games for the Broncos. However, at season’s end, he was released to take up a deal with the Newcastle Knights. His time there was underwhelming — 14 games across two years — and he was cut loose in 2021.
Detour to Rugby Union — Then Another NRL Shot
With options drying up, Shibasaki made the bold move to Japan, switching codes to play rugby union for Green Rockets Tokatsu in 2022. He managed eight appearances but didn’t stay long.
By mid-2022, he had returned to Australia and signed a train-and-trial deal with the North Queensland Cowboys. His perseverance earned him a one-year NRL contract for 2023, but his involvement was again limited — just two matches played before being let go once more.
Many assumed that would be the end of his top-level career.
Grinding It Out in Queensland Cup
Rather than give up, Shibasaki returned to the Queensland Cup in 2024, joining the Townsville Blackhawks. Though far removed from the NRL spotlight, he continued to work tirelessly on his game. At one point, he was offered a short-term, week-by-week deal with the South Sydney Rabbitohs and featured in one game, but nothing long-term came of it.
Still, Shibasaki refused to give in.
In late 2024, the Brisbane Broncos offered him a train-and-trial contract for the 2025 season. For many, it was a lifeline. For Shibasaki, it was his last chance.
Redemption in Brisbane
He seized the opportunity.
Not only did he impress the Broncos’ coaching staff, but he earned a full roster spot and has since played all 15 games in 2025. His performances have been nothing short of outstanding: 58 tackle busts, 13 line breaks, and 12 tries so far. With every game, he proved he wasn’t just a fill-in — he was a force.
Shibasaki’s resurgence didn’t go unnoticed by Queensland selectors, who have rewarded his form with a Maroons debut in the 2025 Origin series.
Praise for His Resilience and Work Ethic
On NITV’s Over the Black Dot, host Dean Widders attributed much of Shibasaki’s turnaround to Broncos head coach Michael Maguire, praising the coach for identifying and developing raw, physical talent.
“This reminds me of when Maguire was at Souths with guys like Kirisome Auva’a and Dylan Walker,” Widders said. “He molded them into stars. He’s doing something similar now with Shibasaki.”
Co-host Bo de la Cruz highlighted the personal sacrifices Shibasaki made in pursuit of another chance. He left his young family behind in Townsville to train with Wynnum Manly, a Queensland Cup team, and battled through a brutal pre-season to earn a spot.
“On the first day of pre-season, he was one of the last players to finish the fitness test,” de la Cruz revealed. “But he didn’t back down. He fixed his diet, worked on his fitness, and turned his entire routine around.”
Her admiration was clear: “Now we’re seeing the payoff. He’s tearing teams apart on the edge. It’s beautiful to watch, and I’m thrilled to see him put on that Maroons jersey.”
Fellow panelist Beau Champion also offered glowing praise, calling Shibasaki’s story one that should inspire young athletes across all sports.
“This is what hard work looks like,” Champion said. “It’s not about how many chances you get — it’s about making the most of the one you’re given. I can’t wait to watch him on Wednesday night. Even if he’s in a Maroon jersey, I’m cheering for him.”
A Story of Redemption
Shibasaki’s journey is a powerful reminder of what perseverance, self-belief, and sheer grit can achieve. In the span of three years, he went from being cut by two NRL clubs, to playing rugby union overseas, to fading into the background of the Queensland Cup. But at every stage, he kept pushing.
Now, at 27, when most players are either in their prime or contemplating their next move, Shibasaki is just beginning to write the next chapter of his career.
He’s already shown he can make it back. On July 9, he’ll show that he belongs at the very top.
From the wilderness to Origin — Gehamat Shibasaki’s comeback is complete.
