Brisbane fullback is a confirmed starter for the Broncos’ clash with Penrith this weekend, with coach Wayne Bennett saying the recruit is ready for action.
Bennett broke the news to the media at Broncos’ training this morning, confirming the Broncos’ prize recruit was rearing to go after missing the early portion of the season due to an Achilles injury suffered at pre-season training at the end of 2014.
Boyd was a high-profile recruit for Brisbane, having followed Wayne Bennett to both St George Illawarra and Newcastle. He will play for the Broncos for the first time since 2008.
The Broncos have been playing Lachlan Maranta at fullback in the absence of Boyd, with Justin Hodges filling into the spot when his hamstring allows.
Boyd will fill the spot vacated by Josh Hoffman and Ben Barba, both of whom left the Broncos after the 2014 season under the return of Wayne Bennett.
Halfback Ben Hunt has backed Boyd, a veteran of 21 Origin games for Queensland and 17 Tests for Australia, to play in Origin 1 if he can prove his fitness at club level.
“If he can get one good game under his belt and get through it fit and clear, I think he’ll be right,” Hunt said.
“He’s the type of player, he works hard, he’s done everything right off the ball, he’s fit, he’s done a job for them for a long time.
“He’s doing pretty much everything at the moment and he says he’s feeling good.
“Whether he’s cleared to play yet or not, I’m not too sure.”
Before the season, many feared Boyd may not take part in any matches until the end of the Origin series. His comeback is quite remarkable in that respect.
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