Brisbane’s aspirations for a strong NRL title run are uncertain following a significant bicep injury to captain Adam Reynolds, leaving Coach Kevin Walters to rely on Jock Madden to step into the role. Reynolds will undergo scans after sustaining the injury in a 40-18 loss to the Sydney Roosters, with Walters fearing it could end his season. Physiotherapist Brian Seeney, also known as NRL Physio, suggests a typical recovery time of 12 weeks post-surgery, potentially sidelining Reynolds until at least round 21.
Madden, the team’s secondary halfback, had a minor pectoral injury earlier in the season but is now expected to step up. Walters is hopeful Madden will be fit for their upcoming match against Parramatta, though Tristan Sailor remains an alternative option. Walters views Madden as the long-term successor to Reynolds and sees this as an opportunity for him to showcase his abilities over the next few months.
Reassuringly, Walters notes the team’s depth and expects Reynolds and Jesse Arthars to return later in the season. Despite suggestions to move fullback Reece Walsh to the halves, Walters intends to keep him in his current position. Arthars sustained a jaw injury and is likely to be replaced by Corey Oates.
In other NRL news, NSW Blues Origin coach Michael Maguire faces a setback as Cameron Murray will be sidelined for at least six weeks due to a hip flexor injury, potentially causing him to miss the first two Origin games.
