The Broncos halfback was a surprise inclusion on the extended bench for this weekend’s clash with the Knights. Brisbane stunned the NRL world on Tuesday by naming halfback Adam Reynolds in the No. 24 jersey for the Broncos’ must-win clash against the Knights. Reynolds has not played for the Broncos since Round 9 after walking off the field with a bicep injury, and he was expected to be at least two weeks away from making his return.
The Broncos find themselves in a dire situation, needing to win six of their last seven games to make the NRL finals in what has been a disappointing season to date. Reynolds was a significant factor in the Broncos’ run to the 2023 grand final, with his experienced leadership guiding the young team. However, the Broncos have struggled without their chief playmaker in 2024, currently sitting outside the top eight with 18 points.
Fans were quick to notice Adam Reynolds’ inclusion on the extended bench for Round 20 and were hopeful he might make a late appearance against Newcastle. However, it appears that this won’t be the case, as a surprising theory has emerged regarding his naming.
Channel 9 commentator Peter Psaltis revealed that Reynolds being named on the extended bench wasn’t because he was ready to play. Instead, it was done to ensure the team met the required number of players on the team list. “I asked Matt Ballin about Adam Reynolds being named on the Broncos bench for Saturday night’s game against the Knights,” Psaltis wrote on social media. “He said they were running out of players and put his name down to fill the allotted spots on the bench. Said he’s 2 weeks away from a return.”
Amid speculation that Adam Reynolds could return this weekend, Brisbane has shut down suggestions of an early comeback, confirming that he is on track for a round 22 return in two weeks. However, Reynolds is back in full training and is hopeful the Broncos can secure a couple of wins to remain in contention for finals footy upon his return.
Reynolds was instrumental in guiding the Broncos to the 2023 grand final, using his experience to lead the young team. Without their chief playmaker in 2024, the Broncos have struggled, currently sitting outside the top eight with 18 points.
Following their strong 2023 season, many NRL fans predicted the Broncos to contend for the premiership in 2024, buoyed by their young squad gaining experience from nearly winning the grand final. However, injuries to key players like Adam Reynolds and Reece Walsh, combined with absences due to State of Origin duties, have significantly impacted their campaign.
Currently on a six-game losing streak, the Broncos face a crucial match against the Knights with their season hanging in the balance. While reaching the finals in 2024 seems unlikely, Brisbane has a relatively favorable schedule ahead. They will face the Knights, Bulldogs, Titans, Cowboys, Eels, Dolphins, and Storm to finish the season, along with a bye week.
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