Andrew McCullough says Brisbane are wary of benched Cowboys hooker Jake Granville

BRONCOS hooker Andrew McCullough says Brisbane are wary of his opposite number Jake Granville, even if he does start from the bench.

NRL Broncos v Cowboys Grand Final

ANDREW McCullough believes his opposition number Jake Granville could actually be more dangerous coming off the bench than starting in the grand final rematch against the Cowboys.

For the past two rounds Cowboys coach Paul Green has benched starting hooker Granville as a way to work through the NRL’s new reduced interchange.

While fans and critics alike have questioned the move, with Rory Kostjasyn coming into the starting 13 instead, Green said it is something he may try once more against the Broncos tomorrow night.

And McCullough said it is a move Brisbane will have to be wary of, with their former teammate able to provide the desired impact the Cowboys are looking for.

“He’s a good runner and that’s what makes it so challenging for us,” McCullough said.

“Greeny seems to be testing a few things out for this time of year and I think it’s suited to Jake.

“He’s obviously quick out of dummy-half, he can get on the back of those big guys.”

Granville had a breakout season last year, playing an instrumental part in leading North Queensland to the grand final showdown against Brisbane.

He was one of the best on the field in that game as well, which is why fans have been left confused by Green’s decision to demote him.

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However, Brisbane have also been searching for a similar kind of impact off their bench, with veteran forward Sam Thaiday now a regular interchange player.

McCullough, who kept Granville on the bench during the 27-year-old’s 10-game stint at Brisbane, said while many may be put out by the decision, he knew his good mate would be taking it in his stride.

“Rory and Jake are both team players so if they get told they’re starting on the bench for the sake of the team, that’s what everyone does,” he said.

McCullough said regardless of where Granville did play from, he knew he was going to be a major threat once again as Brisbane look to claim a win over their Queensland rivals.

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Originally published as Andrew McCullough says Brisbane are wary of benched Cowboys hooker Jake Granville