Phil Gould, a prominent figure in the NRL, commented on Ezra Mam’s recent situation, describing him as "very lucky" to be available for selection following a substantial suspension stemming from an off-field incident. In December, Mam was found guilty of charges related to drug driving after being involved in a two-vehicle crash in Brisbane on October 18. This resulted in a nine-game suspension from the NRL along with a significant fine imposed by his club.
With his suspension now completed, speculation is growing regarding whether Brisbane Broncos coach Michael Maguire will include him in the lineup for their upcoming match. The Broncos have struggled with inconsistency this season, recently suffering a significant defeat against the Panthers during the Magic Round.
Gould expressed his surprise that Mam is eligible to play at this stage, noting the current trend of severe penalties for players. On Nine’s program 100% Footy, he stated, "I think he’s very lucky to be playing at all, given how players are ruled out these days." He observed that despite the nature of his suspension, Mam’s return to the field is likely, and there may be temptation to reintegrate him into the team.
Cameron Smith echoed Gould’s assessment of Mam’s fortune regarding the leniency of his suspension. The decision about Mam’s potential return is complicated by the existing dynamics within the Broncos’ squad, particularly regarding their current halves, Adam Reynolds and Ben Hunt. There are expectations that Hunt may switch to the hooker position, a development that Gould believes wasn’t the reason for his move from the Dragons to the Broncos.
Gould posed a critical question about the implications of adding Mam back into a lineup already featuring experienced halves. The Broncos are set to face the South Sydney Rabbitohs in Round 10, and how they manage their player choices in light of Mam’s situation will be closely watched.