The Brisbane Broncos have been physical at training as they battle a seven-game losing streak and off-field distractions, with veteran half Ben Hunt fronting the media to address the club's crisis.
Karapani's second disciplinary breach
Winger Josiah Karapani was dropped for Saturday's home clash with Cronulla after being charged with drink-driving and other traffic offences on Sunday morning. It is the 24-year-old's second breach of team rules this season, having been dropped earlier for a public nuisance offence. Hunt, a member of the club's leadership group that was consulted on the punishment, said Karapani knows he is in the wrong. "You can't keep making those mistakes or you are going to find your way out of this club pretty quickly," Hunt said. "He definitely knows where he stands and, as a leadership group, we're happy to move on." Hunt acknowledged an element of betrayal but described Karapani as a "great fella" at heart, adding, "We've all been young kids before, so we'll get around him, look after him and he'll find his way back."
Hunt's contract extension and coach support
Hunt, 36, recently signed a one-year extension, a move criticised by former teammate Corey Parker due to Hunt's age and form. Hunt said critics are entitled to their opinions but emphasised his excitement to continue after being approached by coach Michael Maguire. "'Madge' came to me and asked if I was interested in going around again, and as soon as he asked it was a no-brainer," Hunt said. "I'm still feeling good, enjoying my footy, I love this club and I want to be here." Addressing media speculation that players are reluctant to re-sign under Maguire's methods, Hunt dismissed the notion. "I re-signed assuming Madge would be the coach. For me, it's the directness. He always tells me where I stand. There's no grey area, and I've always loved that about a coach." Five-eighth Tom Duffy, 22, echoed Hunt's sentiments, citing the same reasoning for his recent extension.
Training intensity and injury boost
The Broncos showed aggression at Wednesday's training, with second-rower Jordan Riki smashing prop Ben Talty and stand-in captain Kotoni Staggs hitting hard. "There was a fair bit of heat going on, but it's good tension," Hunt said. "The boys are working hard and training hard." Hunt also confirmed the return of winger Deine Mariner for the Sharks clash after recovering from six surgeries that saved his right leg, calling it a "huge boost." The Broncos sit 13th on the NRL ladder amid an injury crisis and a seven-game losing streak.
