Brisbane plan to go after former Bronco Ben Hunt in NRL 2018 season opener

BEN Hunt is set for a torrid debut in the Red V with his former Broncos teammates vowing not to underestimate the new Dragons halfback.

Ben Hunt during St. George-Illawarra Dragons training in Wollongong. Picture. Phil Hillyard

DRAGONS recruit Ben Hunt will be targeted by Brisbane in Thursday’s season-opening clash, with his former teammates adamant they won’t underestimate him.

St George Illawarra coach Paul McGregor revealed this week Hunt was helping to plot the Broncos’ downfall, sharing Wayne Bennett’s secrets with his new club.

While many have questioned whether Hunt is worth his $6 million price tag, Broncos lock Josh McGuire says the Queensland and Australian utility is a “world-class” player that must be taken seriously in the season opener.

“I know what he brings,” McGuire said.

McGuire says he’s excited to play against Hunt.

“I’m excited to play against him. He’s a competitor and he works hard. He’s a world-class football player.

“I don’t think he should feel he has anything prove. He’s played for his country and his state. They’ve picked up a great player.

“We’re definitely aware of what he’ll bring to that team and excited about the challenge.”

EARLY MAIL: Coote out of season opener

YOUNG GUN: Brisbane will unleash Su’A

McGuire said he was prepared for a bit of banter with his good friend, while skipper Darius Boyd predicted it would be Hunt’s former halves partner Anthony Milford who would

be in the halfback’s face the most.

“I probably won’t get to say too much but Milf is one of those guys that ... doesn’t mind a bit of a spray,” Boyd said.

“They obviously played in the halves together the last few years so I’m sure if they tackle each other, there might be a few face plants and bit of a word.

Hunt will play against Brisbane for the first time in his club debut.

“But it’s always fun playing against your mates.”

Milford trained strongly with new halves partner Kodi Nikorima and was one of the most vocal among the Broncos squad.

It was a solid hitout for the team at their new Red Hill headquarters.

Jamayne Isaako and Corey Oates trained on the wings as expected, while Sam Thaiday took the role of starting hooker over returning star Andrew McCullough.