NRL 2021: Karmichael Hunt in frame for stunning return with Brisbane Broncos

On the back of another hammering, the Broncos are pondering yet more major changes, as a rookie and a player who hasn’t been in the NRL for 12 years get serious consideration.

Karmichael Hunt is eyeing a return for the Broncos. Picture: Liam Kidston

Reborn Bronco Karmichael Hunt could play his first NRL game in 12 years, as coach Kevin Walters considers wielding the axe for next Saturday night’s clash against the Roosters at the SCG.

Hunt was handed a train-and-trial contract by the Broncos a fortnight ago, and he will officially become available for NRL selection this week as the Broncos look to recover from Friday night’s 50-6 rout by Manly at Suncorp Stadium.

Walters may also blood another debutant against the Roosters, with back-row sensation Brendan Piakura on the cusp of a call-up as rookie forward Jordan Riki faces a two-week suspension for a crusher tackle.

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Piakura may be joined by Hunt, the 34-year-old code-hopper who has made a stunning return to Red Hill after being picked up by Brisbane’s Intrust Super Cup feeder club Souths Logan this season.

Hunt made his Broncos debut as a 17-year-old in 2004, and played the last of his 125 games for Brisbane in 2009 before his shock defection to French rugby and AFL’s Gold Coast Suns.

Karmichael Hunt is in line for his first NRL game since 2009. Picture: Liam Kidston

The Broncos are crying out for hard-headed leadership in the wake of their Manly mauling and Walters says he will consider pitchforking Hunt into battle against the Roosters.

“We will consider all players after this performance,” Walters said.

“Certainly his (Hunt’s) experience ... that was one of the reasons why we brought him back to train with the group, was for his knowledge, so we’ve got that in Karmichael for sure.”

The former Waratahs ace has spent the past fortnight getting up to speed with Brisbane’s training methods and Walters believes Hunt could be a handy defensive option either in the halves or as a Mr Fixit on interchange.

Hunt has a magnificent rugby league resume, having played 10 State of Origin games for Queensland and 11 Tests for Australia. He is the only survivor of Brisbane’s most recent premiership win in 2006.

Veteran Broncos winger Corey Oates said Hunt’s experience could help a youthful Brisbane outfit.

Karmichael Hunt’s experience will be a valuable addition to the Broncos’ squad. Picture: Liam Kidston

“It’s always going to be handy to have him back,” he said. “Karmichael has been a quality player in the game and he is a great athlete, so I’m sure he would be a great inclusion.”

Broncos centre Jesse Arthars said Hunt, who is keen to become an NRL coach, had already made an impression with teammates at Brisbane training.

“If ‘K’ gets a run it would be awesome,” he said.

“He has had such a massive role in the club before and in multiple sports and being a young fella like me, it’s great to have someone like Karmichael in the club.

“You can ask a lot of questions, I personally have, so having him in the team can only benefit the young guys.”

The 18-year-old Piakura is rated a back-row superstar and Walters said last week it is only a matter of time before he gets his chance in the NRL.

Originally published as NRL 2021: Karmichael Hunt in frame for stunning return with Brisbane Broncos