Brisbane Broncos coach Kevin Walters has emphasized that the club has not taken any risks with Reece Walsh’s wellbeing as the fullback makes an earlier-than-expected return from a facial fracture. Initially projected to be out for four to six weeks, Walsh will play against the Dolphins at Suncorp Stadium on Friday night, three weeks after sustaining the injury against Penrith.
To protect his injury, Walsh will wear headgear for the upcoming match. Walters has confidently stated that there is no risk involved in Walsh’s return and that the club has received clearance from all of their medical staff regarding his readiness to take the field. Walters also humorously mentioned wanting to preserve Walsh’s potential “Hollywood career,” indicating the team’s commitment to ensuring his safety and long-term well-being.
According to Brisbane Broncos coach Kevin Walters, Reece Walsh wearing headgear is simply a precautionary measure required for him to play. Walters acknowledged that it can be challenging for any player to sit out and watch the game, especially someone like Walsh who is deeply passionate about rugby league.
The Broncos currently have a number of players sidelined due to injuries, including Payne Haas (knee), Adam Reynolds (hamstring), Brendan Piakura (ankle), and Deine Mariner (back). However, they will have forward Xavier Willison returning to the bench after completing concussion protocols.
Walters acknowledged that injuries have affected several clubs this year, not just the Broncos, and many players are unable to take the field each weekend. Despite the challenges, Walters expressed that the team has been adapting well and coping with the circumstances. He also mentioned that the Broncos have faced strong teams in the competition and have managed to navigate through those matches successfully.
In addition to the existing injury concerns, second-rower Jordan Riki suffered an ankle sprain during training on Tuesday but managed to participate in the captain’s run on Thursday, albeit with a noticeable limp.
According to Kevin Walters, Jordan Riki is expected to play in the upcoming game unless he experiences soreness on Friday morning.
The Brisbane Broncos are not currently concerned about retaining center Kotoni Staggs beyond 2025. Staggs will become a free agent on November 1, and it is anticipated that there will be significant interest in the Australian Test center.
Walters stated that Staggs is highly valued by the Broncos, and their intention is to keep him. However, contract negotiations are not currently the team’s focus, as Staggs is signed until the end of 2025. The responsibility for handling contract matters lies with recruitment boss Simon Scanlan and CEO Dave Donaghy.
Walters expressed his satisfaction in coaching Staggs, describing him as a great individual to work with. Despite the team facing some challenges due to injuries, Staggs has demonstrated maturity and has been performing at his best during this period.
Overall, the Broncos value Staggs and intend to retain him, but contract discussions are not currently at the forefront of their priorities.
