Broncos welcome Jack’s return; Talakai shifts to centre as…
The Brisbane Broncos are all set to return to action on a sunny Sunday afternoon, taking on the Cronulla Sharks in what promises to be an entertaining showdown at Brisbane’s iconic Suncorp Stadium. With both teams eager to climb further up the NRL ladder, this Round 16 clash could have significant implications for their finals campaigns.
Brisbane comes into this match with renewed energy after a commanding win over the Gold Coast Titans in Round 14, followed by a well-earned rest during the bye in Round 15. The Broncos will be looking to carry that momentum into this week’s fixture as they attempt to break back into the top six.
One of the key storylines heading into Sunday’s game is the head-to-head duel between fullbacks Reece Walsh and Will Kennedy. Walsh, known for his explosive pace and playmaking ability, will look to ignite the Broncos’ attack, while Kennedy’s consistency and finishing ability make him just as vital for the Sharks. Their battle could be a defining feature of the contest.
The Sharks, currently placed fifth on the ladder, snapped a recent dip in form last round with a confident win over their local rivals, the St George Illawarra Dragons. In that match, winger Sione Katoa impressed with a two-try performance, highlighting Cronulla’s ability to finish strong in wide areas.
Adding to the excitement is a potential heavyweight clash in the middle of the park between star front-rowers Addin Fonua-Blake of the Sharks and Brisbane’s Payne Haas—assuming Haas backs up from Wednesday night’s State of Origin II. Both are among the most dominant forwards in the NRL, and their performances could go a long way in determining which side gains the upper hand through the middle.
Team News: Broncos
Brisbane has named a strong side, headlined by Origin players Pat Carrigan and Payne Haas, who have been selected to play just four days after their representative commitments. Their inclusion provides much-needed muscle and experience in the forward pack.
Another key addition is back-rower Jack Gosiewski, who returns from a long-term injury (fractured arm) and slots into the interchange bench, replacing young prop Ben Te Kura, who is sidelined following surgery on a syndesmosis injury. Meanwhile, Ben Hunt remains unavailable due to a hamstring issue.
One name to watch is Selwyn Cobbo, who’s been listed among the reserves after spending the past two weeks playing in the Queensland Cup. The electric back is fighting to regain his place in the NRL squad. Additionally, new recruit Ben Talty has been named in the extended squad after recently joining the Broncos on a train-and-trial contract.
Team News: Sharks
Cronulla has made only minor adjustments to the side that defeated the Dragons. Siosifa Talakai moves from the forward pack to the centres to replace Mawene Hiroti, who is sidelined with a calf issue. Talakai’s power and agility make him a potent attacking threat in the backline.
Daniel Atkinson joins the bench in the only other change for the Sharks, who are hoping to consolidate their place in the top four with another victory.
Match Details
Match: Brisbane Broncos vs Cronulla Sharks
Round: 16
Date: Sunday, June 22, 2025
Time: 5:00am (AEST)
Venue: Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane
Broadcast: WatchNRL
Full Team Lists
Brisbane Broncos (7th place):
Backs: Reece Walsh (1), Josiah Karapani (2), Kotoni Staggs (3), Gehamat Shibasaki (4), Jesse Arthars (5), Ezra Mam (6), Adam Reynolds (7)
Forwards: Corey Jensen (8), Cory Paix (9), Payne Haas (10), Brendan Piakura (11), Jordan Riki (12), Patrick Carrigan (13)
Interchange: Billy Walters (14), Kobe Hetherington (15), Xavier Willison (16), Jack Gosiewski (17)
Reserves: Tyson Smoothy (18), Selwyn Cobbo (19), Jaiyden Hunt (20), Deine Mariner (21), Blake Mozer (22), Ben Talty (23)
Cronulla Sharks (5th place):
Backs: William Kennedy (1), Sione Katoa (2), Jesse Ramien (3), Siosifa Talakai (4), Ronaldo Mulitalo (5), Braydon Trindall (6), Nicholas Hynes (7)
Forwards: Addin Fonua-Blake (8), Blayke Brailey (9), Oregon Kaufusi (10), Briton Nikora (11), Teig Wilton (12), Cameron McInnes (13)
Interchange: Daniel Atkinson (14), Jesse Colquhoun (15), Toby Rudolf (16), Braden Hamlin-Uele (17)
Reserves: Billy Burns (18), Hohepa Puru (19), Niwhai Puru (20), Jayden Berrell (21), Chris Vea’ila (22)
Recent Form and Key Stats
The Broncos have enjoyed considerable success against the Sharks in recent years, winning 9 of their past 12 encounters.
Despite that, the Sharks have found joy at Suncorp Stadium, winning their last three matches at the venue.
Broncos centre Gehamat Shibasaki has been in outstanding form at home, with seven tries in his last seven games at Suncorp.
Cronulla has been strong during daytime matches, claiming victory in 11 of their last 13 games played in daylight hours.
Jordan Riki will be celebrating a career milestone as he makes his 100th appearance in the NRL—a proud moment for the Broncos second-rower.
The Match-Up to Watch: Walsh vs Kennedy
While there will be many battles across the park, the spotlight will firmly be on the fullbacks. Reece Walsh’s speed and creativity out the back are a huge asset for the Broncos, and he’ll be looking to exploit any gaps in Cronulla’s line. On the other side, Will Kennedy offers a composed and lethal finishing ability, often playing a central role in the Sharks’ attacking raids. Their performances could be the difference between victory and defeat.
Final Thoughts
With plenty of star power on both sides and the added intrigue of returning Origin players, this game promises high-quality rugby league. Both clubs are jostling for top-eight positions, and a win here would significantly boost their momentum heading into the latter part of the season.
Fans can expect a high-intensity affair marked by big plays, thrilling backline movements, and possibly a nail-biting finish. Whether it’s the bruising forwards in the middle or the flashy backs out wide, this
Broncos vs Sharks encounter is shaping up as one of the must-watch games of Round 16.
