The Brisbane Broncos have implemented strategic roster adjustments following their disappointing 26-0 season-opening defeat against the Penrith Panthers, with coach Michael Maguire reversing his controversial selection decision regarding playmaker Ezra Mam.
Mam has been restored to the starting five-eighth position after being surprisingly relegated to the bench for the Panthers clash. The dynamic playmaker’s return signals Maguire’s intention to inject more offensive creativity into the lineup as they prepare to face the Parramatta Eels this weekend.
The Eels may receive their own offensive boost with veteran winger Josh Addo-Carr potentially returning from a thumb injury that sidelined him for just one week. Parramatta has made defensive adjustments, dropping Brian Kelly to reserves after his poor performance in Melbourne, while promoting Jack Williams to starting prop and inserting Kelma Tuilagi into the back row due to J’maine Hopgood’s suspension.
Injury concerns continue to plague several teams across the league. Penrith remains without representative forward Liam Martin (calf strain) as they prepare for their Bathurst fixture, while the Roosters have received positive news with Maroons rookie Robert Toia cleared from a foot injury. However, Sydney will be without enforcer Spencer Leniu due to a hamstring injury sustained during warm-ups last week.
Additional team developments include Wests Tigers starting teen sensation Heamasi Makasini at center for their Leichhardt Oval opener against North Queensland, while Melbourne could see Jack Hetherington make his club debut after being named on the bench for their Wollongong trip.