‘Reyno won’t be able to play’: Broncos suffer huge blow with star playmaker ruled out

Brisbane’s young guns will get the chance to show off their talent with veteran halfback Adam Reynolds ruled out of the Queensland derby.

Adam Reynolds has been ruled out of Saturday’s game against North Queensland due to groin tightness. Picture: Bradley Kanaris/Getty Images

The Broncos have suffered a major blow with skipper Adam Reynolds ruled out of Saturday’s Queensland derby against the Cowboys due to groin tightness.

The veteran halfback will be replaced by Jock Madden, while Xavier Willison comes onto the bench for Kobe Hetherington (back cork).

Reynolds has been one of Brisbane’s best this season, with only North Queensland’s Scott Drinkwater setting up more tries than his 23 assists.

His absence will put more of an onus on livewire fullback Reece Walsh to control the attack as they look to keep pace with Penrith.

The Cowboys have their own concerns with Valentine Holmes to miss the rest of the regular season due to suspension. Veteran Kyle Feldt is set to come into the backline.

Valentine Holmes has been banned for four matches for a high shot on Jayden Campbell. Picture; Chris Hyde/Getty Images

“Reyno won’t be able to play tomorrow and that creates an opportunity for Jock to come into the side – he has been playing some great football in the Queensland Cup and we have a lot of faith in him and now he gets his chance in a big game,” Broncos coach Kevin Walters said.

“Kobe wasn’t quite right either and Xavier has been there for the past month, so it’s another good opportunity for one of young players to really show their skills.

“We’ve got a really strong squad in 2023 and we’ve had a good week of preparation – the weather up here in Townsville is great and we’re really excited about tomorrow’s game.”