Brad Fittler has voiced his surprise at the delay in recalling Brisbane Broncos wingers Selwyn Cobbo and Deine Mariner, who spent a considerable part of the 2025 season playing in reserve grade. As the Broncos prepare for a critical clash against the Melbourne Storm—premiership favourites—Fittler highlighted that their chances for an upset hinge on the performance of these dynamic players.
The Storm, coached by Craig Bellamy, have a daunting record against the Broncos, winning 16 of their last 17 encounters, which establishes them as a “bogey” team for Brisbane. Despite the absence of Dally M Medallist Jahrome Hughes, the Storm remain strong favourites, especially on their home turf at AAMI Park.
In a discussion on Wide World of Sports, Fittler emphasised the importance of involving Cobbo and Mariner in the game plan if the Broncos are to contend for the finals. He pointed out that both wingers needed to be fit and integrated into the team dynamics. Fittler and fellow analyst Andrew Johns predicted a closely contested match but raised concerns about the Storm’s line-up, particularly the absence of key player Nelson Asofa-Solomona, who, despite completing a suspension, was not selected. Johns speculated this might be related to fitness issues, recalling the Storm’s struggles without him in last year’s grand final against Penrith.
Johns advocated for an aggressive strategy from the Broncos as their best chance to claim an unexpected victory. He noted the successful collaboration of young playmakers Ezra Mam and Reece Walsh in recent matches, suggesting they should continue to focus on a high-octane attacking game, which tends to invigorate the team.
Both analysts noted the significance of the upcoming match, underscoring the need for the Broncos to embrace a fearless approach to maximise their chances against a formidable opponent like Melbourne.
In related NRL tipping, Fittler and Johns both opted for the Storm to win, with various experts aligning their predictions around the Storm and other top teams like the Panthers and Raiders in the upcoming rounds.