Reece Walsh and Fellow Broncos Eye State of Origin Game Three Selection
Brisbane Broncos fullback Reece Walsh is positioning himself for a return to the Queensland State of Origin side, following a standout performance in his recent match. After recovering from a knee injury, Walsh delivered a scintillating display in the Broncos’ 44-14 win over the Gold Coast Titans in Round 14. Scoring two tries and exhibiting a top-tier passing game, Walsh reminded everyone of his elite potential, giving Queensland coach Billy Slater plenty to consider for the third and final Origin clash.
Currently, the Broncos have just one representative—Pat Carrigan—in the Maroons squad for the second State of Origin game, to be held in Perth. However, that number could soon grow. If Walsh, winger Jesse Arthars, and back-rower Brendan Piakura can replicate or build on their recent performances in the upcoming games, they may force their way into selection discussions for Game Three.
Coach Kevin Walters and the Broncos will be looking to sustain momentum from their dominant display against the Titans. That match served as a significant confidence booster, especially for Walsh, who was returning to top form after an injury layoff. His dynamic attacking play, combined with his ability to create opportunities through sharp passing and strategic vision, showcased the qualities that once made him a mainstay in the Maroons line-up.
Jesse Arthars, another strong Origin candidate from the Broncos camp, was part of Queensland’s preparations ahead of Game One of the series. Though he didn’t make the final cut, Arthars’ continued form over the past three years has made him a consistent performer for Brisbane and someone who Slater holds in high regard. His reliability on the wing and ability to perform under pressure make him a viable option for a Maroons call-up.
Meanwhile, Brendan Piakura has had a season marked by inconsistency but remains a serious talent. His performances have oscillated, yet when he is at his best, Piakura is a potent combination of strength and skill. His impact was evident in the game against the Titans, where he was both defensively solid and a danger in attack. If he can maintain that level in coming matches, selectors may find his versatility and physicality hard to ignore.
Injury news continues to shape the Broncos’ campaign. Veteran utility Ben Hunt, a mainstay in past Maroons line-ups, remains sidelined with a hamstring strain. He won’t be available for the Broncos’ Sunday matchup against Cronulla at Suncorp Stadium, but there is cautious optimism about his return for upcoming fixtures against the Warriors or the Bulldogs. Hunt’s absence has created opportunities for other players to step up and make their mark.
Second-rower Jack Gosiewski is set to bolster Brisbane’s bench as he makes his return from a broken arm. His availability adds depth to the Broncos’ forward pack, which has been stretched due to injuries. Meanwhile, prop Ben Te Kura recently underwent surgery to address a syndesmosis injury and will be out for six to eight weeks, further testing Brisbane’s squad depth.
With the Broncos coming off a bye after their emphatic win over the Titans, the next two rounds will be critical—not just for the club’s finals aspirations but also for individual players eyeing a Maroons jersey. Consistency will be key for Walsh, Arthars, and Piakura. Back-to-back impressive performances could be the final piece of the puzzle that convinces Slater to include one or more of them for the final State of Origin showdown.
Game Two will play a pivotal role in shaping the outlook for Game Three. If Queensland wins in Perth, Slater may opt to keep changes minimal. But if New South Wales evens the series, the Maroons could be prompted to consider reinforcements, especially in positions where injuries or form are an issue. In that case, players like Walsh—already familiar with the Origin environment—could slot in seamlessly.
The Broncos’ system under Walters has been credited for allowing emerging talents to flourish. Their emphasis on attacking footy, while maintaining defensive discipline, has helped players like Walsh and Arthars refine their skill sets and build the kind of game required for the Origin stage.
In summary, the spotlight will be on Reece Walsh and his fellow Broncos teammates over the next fortnight. Their form could not only boost Brisbane’s NRL campaign but also earn them the honor of representing Queensland in one of rugby league’s greatest stages. With Slater known for rewarding form and attitude, the door is wide open for these players to stake their claim. All they need now is consistency, execution, and a bit o
- f luck with injuries.
