James Roberts career could emulate that of Broncos legend Steve Renouf

JAMES Roberts is becoming the Broncos’ desperately needed matchwinner and his gamebreaking form is reminiscent of a Brisbane Broncos legend, writes Yvonne Sampson.

BRISBANE, AUSTRALIA - APRIL 20: James Roberts of the Broncos takes on the defence during the round seven NRL match between the Brisbane Broncos and the Melbourne Storm at Suncorp Stadium on April 20, 2018 in Brisbane, Australia. (Photo by Bradley Kanaris/Getty Images)

FROM rock star to rock solid — James Roberts has become a reliable, steadfast game breaker.

While some young footballers are trying to get their name up in lights, the Broncos centre is gaining praise for knuckling down and doing what coach Wayne Bennett calls “the tough stuff”.

The challenge for Roberts, blessed with ability and flair, is to play “no frills” footy.

Not many things elude a talent like James, but consistency has been tricky to harness during a career that has seen many challenges in his footy and at home. Now, when the Broncos need to depend on him most, with instability in the halves, Roberts has been delivering.

The campaign is on in earnest to reward him with a State of Origin debut. His supporters want the Blues to just give Jimmy The Jet the ball.

James Roberts has been in great form this year.

We hear the hyperbole blaring out of commentary boxes. “They won’t catch him, he’ll go the length of the field. The fastest man in rugby league. What a superstar. We’ve never seen anything like it!”

Except we have, and we loved him too. His name was Steve Renouf and he had elegance, finesse and pace to burn.

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“The Pearl” was born in Murgon, the 10th of 12 children. Fans would quickly come to love his trademark headgear and his breathtaking length-of-the-field tries. A four-time premiership winner, with 11 call-ups for both Queensland and the Kangaroos. Not just one of the most exciting centres we’ve ever seen, but one of the most consistent and dependable match winners of the modern era.

James Roberts has been touted as chance for the Blues selection.

Roy Masters described Renouf best: a rugby league centre who ran with such speed, grace and elegance that you sensed this is how God wants football to be played.

Both Masters and Phil Rothfield were on the selection committee to decide on the final ballot for the Top 25 NRL Hall of Fame. When Renouf’s name was raised, Buzz made an interesting and profound comparison. He said Renouf reminded him of Roberts at his very best. But instead of glimpses of brilliance, Renouf would consistently be the ultimate game changer in his 12-year career.

James Roberts’ form has been reminiscent of the great Steve Renouf.

As fate would have it, the Broncos all-time tryscorer (a record Renouf would happily hand over to Roberts) has worked closely with James.

A strong bond developed as the pair travelled around remote communities in Queensland and beyond, visiting some of our most disadvantaged fans and developing young talent who sadly have very limited options — something two proud indigenous men understand on a personal level.

Their work with Beyond the Broncos community programs and Deadly Choices is nothing short of incredible and, in some cases, life changing.

Brisbane CEO Paul White knew James Roberts was always worth the perseverance and compassion. Now, with the influence of Renouf, we are finally seeing the best, most reliable Roberts.

He himself would tell you he still has a way to go, but he’s certainly not far away.

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Originally published as James Roberts career could emulate that of Broncos legend Steve Renouf