Ben Hunt’s move to hooker has revitalised Brisbane’s premiership charge

BRISBANE might not be a better team with Ben Hunt at hooker but it could be the perfect temporary move to end their title drought.

Ben Hunt of the Broncos passes during the Round 22 NRL match between the Gold Coast Titans and the Brisbane Broncos at Cbus Super Stadium in Robina on the Gold Coast, Saturday, August 5, 2017. (AAP Image/Dave Hunt) NO ARCHIVING, EDITORIAL USE ONLY

BEN Hunt has proven the Broncos are not shot ducks without Andrew McCullough after having the last laugh against his future club.

Hunt was scheming in Brisbane’s 24-12 win against the Dragons at Suncorp Stadium as Brisbane continued its charge towards the NRL finals by securing a top four berth.

The Broncos were supposed to be premiership pretenders when McCullough suffered a season-ending knee injury against Parramatta four weeks ago.

Hunt has been in great touch since moving to hooker.

The inspirational hooker is Brisbane’s heart and soul, the most popular player and a defensive rock in the middle of the field for the Broncos.

His absence has left a hole in Brisbane’s middle but opened a door for Hunt to showcase his ability.

Hunt, who made his State of Origin debut this year, has thrived without the responsibility of wearing the No. 7 jersey and having to marshal Brisbane’s every move.

Veteran forward Sam Thaiday started at hooker again last night before Hunt was injected from the interchange with immediate effect.

CLEARED: Martin will play against Sharks

MARCH: Broncos priming for title charge

Hunt’s cross-field kick for a flying Jordan Kahu was pinpoint. He floated into first receiver at times and kicked from dummy-half if he sensed it was the best option.

With the No. 9 on his back Hunt can play with his eyes up, scanning for chinks in the defence’s armour or offloading to the in-form Anthony Milford.

Could Brisbane go all the way?

The Dragons have outlaid $6 million for Hunt to play halfback next season, but they got a glimpse of his worth as a No. 9.

Make no mistake, the Broncos are a better team with McCullough, but his absence has allowed the Broncos to find a finals x-factor in Hunt.

With a top two finish looming, the stars are aligning for the Broncos to make their second grand final in three years.

And there could be a fairytale farewell for Hunt if he can continue to produce the form he has found in a foreign jersey.

Originally published as Ben Hunt’s move to hooker has revitalised Brisbane’s premiership charge