Broncos coach Kevin Walters has sparked fresh calls for a change in the State of Origin format, attributing his team’s struggles in the 2024 NRL season to the impact of the interstate series. Walters rested key players Reece Walsh, Payne Haas, and Patrick Carrigan following Origin Game II, a decision that led to criticism after the Broncos suffered a loss to the Warriors in New Zealand just days later.
This defeat was part of a six-game losing streak that has put Brisbane’s hopes of making the NRL finals in jeopardy. To secure a playoff spot, the Broncos now need to win their remaining three games and rely on other teams in the top eight to falter. While it’s not mathematically impossible, their chances are slim.
Walters has faced significant backlash due to the Broncos’ precarious position, especially since the team was expected to perform well following their grand final appearance last season. Injuries have played a major role in their struggles, with key players like captain and halfback Adam Reynolds missing eight weeks due to a pectoral injury. Walsh and Haas were also sidelined at various points, adding to the team’s challenges.
The State of Origin period has been particularly tough on the Broncos. Players were either forced to back up soon after playing in the representative series, rested for critical matches, or missed games altogether while in camp for their state. Walters’ decision to rest his star players was heavily criticized, but the late-season injuries to Haas and others suggest that the extra workload may have contributed to the team’s injury woes.
Walters has called for a “better solution” to the issues caused by the State of Origin series, particularly its impact on teams like the Broncos. Speaking to SENQ, he expressed frustration over losing his best players for a significant portion of the season, which he believes hampered their ability to secure crucial wins during that period. He emphasized that while these factors are not excuses, they are valid reasons for why the season has not gone according to plan.
In addition to the disruptions caused by the Origin series and injuries, the Broncos have also struggled with poor performance metrics. They currently hold the worst completion rate in the NRL, at 76%. Walters acknowledged the intense scrutiny that comes with leading a club as prominent as the Broncos and understands the criticism he has received for their underwhelming season.
Overall, Walters’ remarks highlight the challenges faced by teams during the State of Origin period and suggest that the NRL may need to reconsider how the series is scheduled to minimize its impact on the regular season.
