Cooper Cronk, the former NRL star, has voiced a strong opinion regarding the Brisbane Broncos’ halves pairing, suggesting that the combination of Adam Reynolds and Ben Hunt should remain intact even when Ezra Mam returns from suspension mid-season. This recommendation follows a standout performance by the duo in a recent match, where they orchestrated a commanding 50-14 victory.
Reynolds, known for his strategic playmaking, contributed significantly with a linebreak assist and three try assists. Meanwhile, Hunt, originally brought in as a hooker, showcased his versatility with 34 run meters, a linebreak, a linebreak assist, and a try. Cronk believes that this partnership is crucial for the Broncos’ success and should not be disrupted.
The Case for Stability in the Halves
Cronk, speaking on the “Matty and Cronk” show, emphasized the importance of maintaining the current halves pairing. “That combination of Adam Reynolds and Ben Hunt is going to be a very, very good thing,” he stated. “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.”
He further elaborated on the cultural and strategic reasons for his stance. “Number one, a cultural piece with what Ezra went through, but number two, I think with the talent the Broncos have, Staggs, Cobbo, Walsh, Payne Haas, Carrigan, Adam Reynolds in 2023 got a lot of things right to control that team in terms of the decision making,” Cronk added.
Challenges and Opportunities
Despite initial concerns about having two prominent halfbacks in the same team, Cronk praised Hunt’s adaptability and selflessness. “I like what Ben Hunt did,” Cronk explained. “Little down the short side against the Roosters. Three on two executed, so he has gone from being a first receiver halfback dominating for the Dragons and touching the ball a thousand times to basically picking his moments on the left-hand side and complimenting what Adam Reynolds and Reece Walsh have.”
Matty Johns, another respected voice in rugby league, echoed Cronk’s sentiments, highlighting the rarity and advantage of having two experienced playmakers. “That’s the thing, if you have one experienced playmaker in your side, it is a godsend,” Johns said. “But now to have two.”
Ezra Mam’s Role Upon Return
Ezra Mam’s return from a 10-game suspension presents a dilemma for Broncos coach Michael Maguire. Johns suggested that Mam could still play a significant role, albeit not necessarily in the No.6 jersey every week. “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.”
The strategic management of the team’s playmakers is crucial for their title aspirations. Cronk noted, “And they can time their run for the two 34-year-olds to play their best footy at the back end of the year. That’s the role Ezra Mam would play after what I’ve seen from those halves.”
Implications for the Broncos’ Season
The Broncos’ impressive performance early in the season, particularly their effective short side raids, sends a strong message to the rest of the NRL. Johns remarked, “Playing short sides is such an asset for a team. You know a side has had a very good off-season not just training, but planning and getting their structure and the science of their game down pat.”
Hunt’s transformation from a primary playmaker at the Dragons to a complementary role at the Broncos is seen as a significant development. Cronk explained, “There are little differences between playing halfback and five-eighth. The halfback has the blinkers on and has the eyes down the field about what he can do running the ball or a short pass. When you are a second receiver five-eighth, your eyes are a little bit wider looking at options for the outside.”
As the season progresses, the Broncos will need to leverage the strengths of their playmakers to maintain their competitive edge. The strategic decisions made by Maguire and the performances of Reynolds and Hunt will be pivotal in shaping the team’s fortunes.
