Karmichael Hunt will draw on skills learnt in rugby union when he makes his NRL return for Brisbane on Saturday after nearly 12 years away.
The former Broncos, Queensland and Australian fullback has been selected to partner Albert Kelly in the halves against Canberra in the most unlikely of scenarios as coach Kevin Walters continues to search for solutions following a 3-10 start to the season.
Dual international Hunt, 34, debuted for Brisbane as a 17-year-old before enjoying careers in the AFL with Gold Coast and then in Super Rugby with the Queensland Reds and NSW Waratahs.
Wallabies No.10 James O’Connor told AAP earlier this year that Hunt’s calm temperament and improved playmaking skills – learnt as a ball-playing inside centre in rugby – meant he could be just what the Broncos were looking for.
No sooner was Hunt, who returned to league with Souths Logan in the Queensland Cup this season, back training at Red Hill before Walters sealed his NRL return on Tuesday.
“The body feels great and skills are maybe a bit better than when I was here last,” Hunt said in May.
“Sure (I can play in the halves); the last however many years I’ve been playing in the No.12 and have no issues directing the team around.
“My passing, kicking game, I’ve got no worries with.”
Walters has swung the axe after the Broncos’ 52-24 disintegration against St George Illawarra, with Tyson Gamble making way for Hunt and fullback Jamayne Isaako also dropped.
Centre Herbie Farnworth will wear the No.1 with Dale Copley at centre, while David Mead has been dropped and last-round debutant Selwyn Cobbo retained on the wing.
Origin representatives Payne Haas and Xavier Coates have been named to return to the starting side, pending fitness after Wednesday’s game in Townsville.
U
Roar Rookie
He’s 34 with a body of a 45 year old considering all the drugs and injuries he’s had
U
Roar Rookie
At least Boyd accomplished a lot. Hunt hasn’t done jack for years
Jockstar
Guest
Yeah Hunt will save the Broncos ya like he did for the tahs and the Suns. Talk about no clue desperation. Cmon Doggies improve so the Broncs get the spoon. Is Lockyer still calling the shots.
Tony
Roar Guru
Those pesky youngsters have been moved on haven't they?
Tony
Roar Guru
Panic stations in Brisbane
Paul
Roar Guru
I saw the headline "Hunt backs himself to excel with the Broncos" and thought we'd dumped Ben! :happy: It never dawned on me the Broncos would pick up Carmichael. I didn't even realise he was still playing.
matth
Roar Guru
Gamble is a bit of an erratic loose cannon. I'd be much happier seeing him on the bench for some impact.
matth
Roar Guru
Bugger Darius, it's nearly time to ring Wally!
JOHN ALLAN
Guest
You underestimate him Tony. It’s no coincidence that the “Mighty Waratahs” have struggled in his absence.
ferret
Guest
Yep, I am also confused how the chopping and changing every week will result in cohesion and/or build for the future. Is Farnworth really a fullback option going forward? If not why take him from his normal position? Why not give Niu another shot at fb and leave Farnworth in the centres to continue his development there? I'm sure Walters has a better idea than me but from the outside looking in it's comes across as a bit too frantic.
G Len N
Roar Rookie
Good to get new blood like KH into the team and start developing combinations for the future. His combos with the spine and his line running forwards will pay dividends now and into the next couple of seasons. Better than having those young up and coming and long term prospect footballers being involved.
Nat
Roar Guru
God luck to you K. If you are "a bit better than when I was here last" we can expect good things. I'm not surprised he took Gamble's spot as they are too alike. It's not a knock on Tyson but Kelly has a bit more flair.
Tony
Roar Guru
Can't see why not
Nat
Roar Guru
Darius would be Hooks hit list wouldn't he? :laughing:
Dutski
Roar Guru
Good luck to him. They’ve got to do something and maybe this will be the thing that actually works.
Tony
Roar Guru
Desperate times at the Broncos. Nearly time to ring Darius.