Knights Coach Faces Halves Selection Dilemma Ahead of Season Opener
Newcastle Knights coach Justin Holbrook has confirmed he will not use Fletcher Sharpe from the newly extended bench, setting up a direct competition between Sharpe and Sandon Smith for the starting halves position alongside star recruit Dylan Brown. The decision comes after both players started in the Knights' 28-18 pre-season loss to St George Illawarra on Saturday.
Final Call Pending Brown's Return
Holbrook revealed a final decision will be made following Dylan Brown's appearance in next Saturday's trial match against Canterbury. This final hit-out serves as crucial preparation before the reigning wooden spooners travel to Las Vegas for their season opener against North Queensland.
"I thought they both complemented each other well," Holbrook said of Smith and Sharpe's performance. "Dylan Brown will play next week so I'll only have one of them start there. I'll work that out in the next couple of days. I'm happy with whichever way we go."
Contrasting Skill Sets Create Selection Challenge
The selection dilemma presents Holbrook with two distinct options. New recruit Sandon Smith brings traditional halfback attributes with strong game-management skills that could potentially complement ball-runner Dylan Brown effectively.
Meanwhile, Fletcher Sharpe has emerged as a genuine game-breaker across 26 first-grade appearances. The Knights' attack notably struggled last season, plummeting to last on the ladder with the league's worst offensive output after Sharpe suffered kidney and spleen injuries in June.
Smith Embraces Selection Battle After Roosters Move
Sandon Smith followed former Sydney Roosters assistant Justin Holbrook to Newcastle during the off-season after facing limited opportunities behind established halves at his previous club. The young playmaker appears unfazed by the fresh selection challenge.
"In the NRL, there's 30 players in each club, there's always going to be a battle," Smith stated. "If you're not up to it, then you're not going to be there."
Potential for Multiple Playmakers in Starting Side
Smith expressed optimism about finding room for both himself and Sharpe in the starting lineup, noting Sharpe's versatility to cover outside back positions or fullback should Kalyn Ponga become unavailable. Smith himself demonstrated flexibility during Saturday's trial, spending time at hooker - a position he could potentially share with Phoenix Crossland following Jayden Brailey's departure to Canberra.
"We want all three, four of us on the field at the same time however we can," Smith explained, including Tyson Gamble as an additional halves option. "There's definitely a world where we can work it out. We'll find out over the next few months and we'll make it work. It'll put us in a very good spot to play some good footy."
Holbrook's Long-Term Vision for Playmaking Trio
Justin Holbrook acknowledged the possibility of Brown, Sharpe and Smith all sharing the field in future seasons, particularly as the game continues to increase in pace.
"Possibly, with how fast the game's getting, those guys are really important to your team. It's just about getting the balance right," the Knights coach commented.
Despite recent rule changes permitting six players on the bench rather than four, Holbrook made clear his preference for Sharpe to start if Smith secures the halfback position.
"He's such a good footy player. That (a bench role) would be unlikely," Holbrook emphasized, highlighting the value he places on Sharpe's starting capabilities.
