Cooper Cronk has expressed a strong opinion regarding the Brisbane Broncos’ halves pairing, suggesting that the team should maintain the combination of Adam Reynolds and Ben Hunt even after Ezra Mam returns from suspension mid-season. This recommendation follows an impressive performance by the duo in the opening round of the 2025 NRL Telstra Premiership.
During the Broncos’ commanding 50-14 victory, Reynolds showcased his playmaking prowess with a linebreak assist and three try assists. Hunt, initially brought in as a hooker and backup for the halves, contributed significantly with 34 run meters, a linebreak, a linebreak assist, and a try. These performances have led Cronk to believe that this partnership should remain intact for the remainder of the season.
Strategic Decisions for the Broncos
Cronk’s endorsement of the Reynolds-Hunt pairing is based on their complementary skills and the potential they hold for the Broncos. He emphasized the importance of stability and decision-making within the team, particularly with key players like Kotoni Staggs, Selwyn Cobbo, and Reece Walsh in the mix.
“That combination of Adam Reynolds and Ben Hunt is going to be a very, very good thing,” Cronk stated on the Matty and Cronk show. “When Ezra Mam comes back, I wouldn’t move Ben Hunt. I don’t care what Ezra Mam does from here on out. Ben Hunt is my five-eighth for the rest of the year.”
Cronk also touched upon the cultural and strategic aspects of this decision, noting that the Broncos’ success in 2023 under Reynolds’ leadership should not be underestimated, despite some late-game decisions that impacted their grand final outcome.
The Role of Ezra Mam
Ezra Mam’s return from a 10-game suspension presents a challenge for Broncos coach Michael Maguire. While Mam is a talented player, Cronk and fellow commentator Matty Johns suggest that his role might need to be adjusted to accommodate the current successful halves combination.
“Ezra is going to give Madge flexibility,” Johns said. “He can play him at No.14. The other thing he can do as well is one thing about Adam and Ben is they are not spring chickens. There is going to be times in the year when they need a break.”
This flexibility could be crucial for the Broncos as they navigate the demands of the season and aim to peak during the finals. Mam’s ability to provide relief and rotation for the ageing playmakers could be invaluable.
Implications for the Broncos’ Season
The decision to keep Hunt in the halves could have significant implications for the Broncos’ title aspirations. With two experienced playmakers in Reynolds and Hunt, the team can capitalize on their strategic acumen and composure, particularly in high-pressure situations.
“And they can time their run for the two 34-year-old’s to play their best footy at the back end of the year,” Cronk noted. “That’s the role Ezra Mam would play after what I’ve seen from those halves.”
Johns also highlighted the tactical advantage the Broncos have demonstrated early in the season with their effective short side plays, a testament to their well-planned off-season training and strategic preparation.
Looking Ahead
As the season progresses, the Broncos will need to carefully manage their squad to maintain form and fitness. The decision regarding the halves pairing will be pivotal, not only for immediate results but also for the team’s long-term success.
With the potential for rotation and strategic deployment of players like Mam, the Broncos are well-positioned to adapt to the challenges of the season. The coming weeks will reveal how Maguire plans to utilize his roster to maximize the team’s performance and secure a strong finish in the 2025 NRL Telstra Premiership.
