NRL 2024: Double injury blow to Ezra Mam and Jock Madden could see versatile Tristan Sailor into new position for Broncos

Not for the first time this season, the Broncos are turning to Tristan Sailor to answer an SOS call after a double injury blow, but this time it won’t be at fullback.

Tristan Sailor, Brisbane Broncos training, Red Hill. Picture: Liam Kidston

Tristan Sailor may be forced to answer an SOS to play five-eighth for the Broncos in this week’s spicy showdown against the Roosters at Suncorp Stadium.

Ezra Mam, racially taunted by Roosters forwards Spencer Leniu in the season-opener in Las Vegas, is in danger of missing a second match in succession due to a finger injury.

And in a further setback, the improving Jock Madden is in doubt with a pectoral muscle injury and while the ailment is not considered serious he will have a scan on Monday.

If both are unavailable, Sailor may be called in to support Adam Reynolds in the halves.

Sailor’s father, Broncos great Wendell, recently praised his son’s adaptability.

“Tristan is the ultimate team player,” Wendell said. “He can play five or six positions, including five-eighth or halfback.

Tristan Sailor could be poised to play in the halves against the Roosters. Picture: Liam Kidston

“There is no doubt Tristan can be the answer in the halves. The Broncos have Jock Madden as another option, so it comes down to Kevvie, but Tristan has the IQ to play in the halves.

“Fullback in his main position but Tristan just wants to be in the 17.”

Reynolds had a masterful return from injury against the Tigers and not even a bout of cramp could dull the high rating he received from Tigers coach Benji Marshall who conceded “he (Reynolds) kicked us to death.’’

“I’m alright, the little legs were cramping up there,’’ Reynolds said.

Adam Reynolds gave his all in his return to the side and earned the praise of Benji Marshall. Picture: Izhar Khan/Getty Images

“I just wanted to get a feel and get back in the game. I did the little things. I knew my touch would be off at times, I spent a few weeks on the sideline, so the priority was defence and kicking game and everything off the back of that, just marching the boys around the field.’’

Fullback Reece Walsh felt he was a beneficiary of Reynolds’ return from injury.

“Me and Reyno are working together really well,’’ Walsh told Fox League.

“We are chatting to each other on the field and he is keeping me calm and patient, telling me when to go and when to pull the trigger, so it’s good to have Reyno back.’’

Walsh was another cramp victim but is in no doubt for the Roosters game.

“I’m not too sure what happened. I had a sore leg and then my guts started going. I couldn’t even move there at one point, I was cramping up, so I might need to talk to the dietitian and see what he has to say.’’