NRL news: Brisbane Broncos refuse to speak on 2023 grand final heartbreak ahead of rematch

Kevin Walters and his Broncos troops have palmed off any and all questions surrounding last year’s grand final heartbreak ahead of the round three rematch with the Panthers.

Broncos coach Kevin Walters has told his players not to mention the grand final.

The Broncos have stonewalled talk of their sorrowful grand final loss to Penrith as they prepare for the rematch on Thursday.

Forward Corey Jensen, hooker Billy Walters and coach Kevin Walters all declined to reflect on last year’s grand final loss to the Panthers when the Broncos squandered a 16-point lead.

It appears coach Walters may have taken on the role of amateur psychologist as the Broncos adopt a “don’t mention the war’’ philosophy.

Walters did a similar tactic when Queensland coach in the 2019 State of Origin series when he and the players refused to mention NSW by name.

When asked to comment on the grand final by this masthead on Sunday, coach Walters said “we’re not talking about last year’s grand final’’ and the theme was maintained on Monday at training.

Asked to reflect on the loss, Jensen said: “I can’t really say anything about that. We know they are going to be a good side so we are just going to go out there and play well.’

Billy Walters said: “There is no ban. We just don’t want to talk about it. That’s last year. We are not worried about it. We are worried about this weekend. There is a new competition this year.’’

Broncos coach Kevin Walters refused any questions surrounding the 2023 grand final. Picture: NRL Imagery

Asked whether he supported the decision not to look back, Jensen said: “I do actually because we are a new side, a different team to who played last year.

“We are building each game and feel there is a lot of improvement in us. We know Penrith are a great side but we don’t want to talk about that side we just want to be better than we were last week.’’

Broncos star Adam Reynolds failed to finish Friday's win over South Sydney after succumbing to a knee injury. Credit: NRL Images

The Broncos have lost skipper Adam Reynolds for the crucial game and forward powerhouse Payne Haas remains in doubt with a knee injury after being restricted to light training duties on Monday.

Jensen will play his 100th NRL match and is proud of his journey on the long and winding road to the milestone.

“It’s my eighth season in the NRL. It took a long time for me to get there but it is a big milestone for me.

“I have probably had more downs throughout my career than ups. I have always been a toiler. I did not start until late. I had to keep working hard.

Xavier Willision will be included if Haas is missing and Jensen feels he will rise to the challenge.

“He has been great every time he has to step up. He has a big motor. He is a big body. He is a young kid but he is very talented. I have no doubt if he gets called up he will do a good job.’’