Arthars Steps Up at Fullback, Baker Axed Amid Broncos’ Slump
(Brisbane, May 27, 2025) – The Brisbane Broncos have been dealt another blow with star fullback Reece Walsh ruled out for Saturday’s crucial clash against Manly Sea Eagles at Brookvale Oval.
Despite training on Monday, the club is taking a cautious approach to Walsh’s return from a posterior cruciate ligament injury sustained in Round 7. Jesse Arthars, who starred at fullback for the Maori All Stars earlier this year, gets the nod to wear the No. 1 jersey in Walsh’s absence. Regular winger Selwyn Cobbo, who filled in previously but is managing a wrist injury, remains on the wing.
In a significant forward reshuffle, coach Michael Maguire has recalled towering 205cm prop Ben Te Kura for his first NRL appearance this season, replacing the axed Fletcher Baker. Baker was dropped following a poor performance in the Round 11 loss to St George Illawarra.
Te Kura, 21, has been dominant in the Queensland Cup for Souths-Logan, boasting an incredible defensive efficiency rate of 98.2% – missing just three tackles in nine games. He brings size and impact, having scored a memorable try in his three NRL appearances last season.
The Broncos, who have lost five of their last six games, face sliding out of the top eight with another defeat. State of Origin representatives Payne Haas and Pat Carrigan are named to start, but their availability will be confirmed later in the week.
