Brisbane's Indispensable Man Ben Hunt Embraces Permanent Hooker Role
Brisbane Broncos veteran Ben Hunt is relishing his permanent switch to hooker as he sets his sights on achieving back-to-back premierships and securing a contract extension with the club. The 36-year-old playmaker enters his remarkable 18th season in the NRL with a burning ambition to add another title to his maiden 2025 championship victory.
Chasing History and More Success
Hunt possesses both the stamina and determination to potentially become just the second player in NRL history to reach the magical 400-game milestone. Last season, he demonstrated his versatility by playing five-eighth, hooker, and halfback with exceptional skill for the Broncos, stepping up in crucial moments during their 26-22 grand final triumph over Melbourne.
One of his most memorable contributions was the golden point field goal in the thrilling 29-28 qualifying final victory against Canberra. This moment stands as one of his greatest achievements for the club he joined as a 12-year-old.
Entering last year's decider with 354 NRL games to his name, Hunt held the unfortunate record for the most matches played without winning a premiership. His 355th game finally delivered the championship he had pursued throughout his career, yet the veteran remains unsatisfied with just one title.
Hungry for More Glory
The experienced campaigner insists the Broncos will be even stronger in coach Michael Maguire's second season at the helm, and his personal appetite for success remains unquenched. "Two is better than one," Hunt remarked with a grin. "I'm still hungry for success for this club, I really am. I just want to win another one."
"I got a taste for it and when you feel how special that is it just makes you want to go again," he continued. "You still need a lot of luck with injuries but it is Madge's second season at the club and we are starting at a higher level than where we started last year. All the boys came back in better shape and we know what to expect now."
Settling into the Hooker Position
Hunt and five-eighth Ezra Mam managed only six games together last season due to various setbacks. Mam served a suspension at the start of the year and didn't return until Round 11, just one week after Hunt suffered a hamstring injury that sidelined him for two months. Mam then missed another five matches with his own hamstring issue.
Although Hunt wore the number nine jersey for Brisbane on just four occasions last year, he is fully committed to starting the season at hooker, with Mam and Adam Reynolds forming the halves combination.
"I'll be at hooker," Hunt confirmed. "That's where I have been training all pre-season. I've had a long conversation with Madge about our best spine and that is me playing at No.9 and Reyno at No.7. I believe that is how we get the best performance out of our team."
Eyeing the 400-Game Milestone
Only legendary player Cameron Smith has reached the prestigious 400 NRL games landmark, but off-contract Hunt could join this exclusive club if he decides to continue playing beyond 2026.
"It could be, but at this point I don't want it to be," Hunt said regarding the possibility of 2026 being his final season. "I still feel in good shape and I can perform for the club. It is a long way to get to the end of the season but that is the way I am feeling at the moment."
Immediate Focus on World Club Challenge
Hunt's immediate priority is winning the World Club Challenge against Hull KR next month. The Broncos are currently engaged in a two-week training camp in Toowoomba to fine-tune their preparations for this significant match.
"It's really important and something I am keen to win for sure," Hunt emphasized. "You don't want to travel over the other side of the world and put in a dud game. I am keen to get it done."
Injury Setback for the Broncos
The Broncos will face the opening rounds without star forward Brendan Piakura, who recently underwent surgery for a knee injury. The 23-year-old sustained a meniscus tear during pre-season training, with the club forecasting an eight-week recovery period.
Piakura's absence represents a significant blow to the team, given his impactful performances last season. His crunching defensive hits and effectiveness as a hole-running specialist made him a valuable asset to the Broncos' forward pack.
