The Brisbane Broncos will be without their star fullback, Reece Walsh, for approximately a month due to a facial fracture. The No. 1 collided with Taylan May during the grand final rematch in Round 3, resulting in a deep cut around his eye that was confirmed by scans.
The injury is serious, and the Broncos were outplayed by the Panthers at the foot of the mountains. The Broncos’ mounting injury list makes it difficult to compete against the premiers.
Injury has also kept Payne Haas out of action, and captain Adam Reynolds is working to get well in time for this week’s derby against the North Queensland Cowboys.
In Walsh’s absence, Kevin Walters decided to transfer Selwyn Cobbo to fullback last week, but 18th man Tristan Sailor is now expected to start for the team.
Having played four games for the Broncos last season as Walsh’s replacement, the 25-year-old accomplished more than he did in his two seasons at St George Illawarra.
Since Walters doesn’t want to move Cobbo to the front and maybe call up veteran Corey Oates to the side, Sailor makes the most sense in the No. 1 jersey.
“Tristan is going to get his opportunity and a good block of footy to show everybody what he can do,” Walters told the Associated Press.
“We are fortunate to have Tristan in such a deep relationship.
He is an innate fullback with excellent game reading skills and a passion for the game, qualities that are crucial in those crucial positions. He has a strong sense of football.”
Last season, Sailor made three of his four appearances for the side, winning three of them. He was impressive in his limited cameos at the back.
The dynamic number one helped the Broncos score six tries in 2023. He also averaged 147 running meters per game and was a constant source of energy.
Prior to Brisbane’s game against the Cowboys, Jesse Arthars remarked, “Tristan is a very classy player and fits in really well.”
“While Reece is undoubtedly our top priority, Tristan performs admirably in Reece’s absence.
“We are expecting his best and I am excited for him to get a crack this early in the season.”
