The Brisbane Broncos and Parramatta Eels have finalised their squads ahead of Thursday night's Round 2 clash at Suncorp Stadium, with both teams making strategic adjustments following their opening round results.
Under the NRL's revised interchange rules for 2026, teams can name six players on the bench, though only four are permitted to take the field on match day. The final squads of 19 players will be confirmed 90 minutes before kickoff, following the mandatory 24-hour squad reduction.
The Broncos enter the contest seeking redemption after a disappointing start to their premiership defence. Coach Michael Maguire has maintained faith in his lineup despite the setback, with Reece Walsh retaining the fullback role and captain Patrick Carrigan anchoring the forward pack.
Impact and Legacy
Impact and Legacy
Impact and Legacy
Ezra Mam has been named at five-eighth with Ben Hunt listed among the interchange players, though the positioning may shift before kickoff as it did in their season opener. The absence of back-rower Brendan Piakura due to a knee injury continues to impact Brisbane's pack rotation.
Parramatta has received a significant boost with the return of Josh Addo-Carr from a thumb injury that sidelined him in Round 1. The experienced winger's inclusion forces a reshuffle in the backline, with Sean Russell moving from wing to centre to accommodate the change.
The Eels' forward pack has undergone modification due to suspension concerns. Jack Williams shifts to the front row following J'maine Hopgood's judiciary appearance, while the backline sees Jordan Samrani elevated to the centres after Will Penisini's withdrawal from the extended squad.
Isaiah Iongi retains the fullback position for Parramatta, with Mitchell Moses and Jonah Pezet forming the halves combination. The forward pack features Junior Paulo and Jack De Belin as key figures in what promises to be a physical encounter.
Race Results
Race Results
Both teams face selection pressure following contrasting Round 1 results. The Broncos' comprehensive defeat to Penrith has raised questions about their ability to repeat last year's success, while the Eels showed promising signs in their season opener.
The match officials for Thursday's encounter include referee Wyatt Raymond, with Ashley Klein serving as the Senior Review Official. Touch judge duties will be handled by Ziggy Przeklasa-Adamski.
Career Journey
The game represents an early-season test for both clubs' premiership aspirations, with the Thursday night fixture providing prime-time exposure for their respective campaigns. Brisbane's home advantage at Suncorp Stadium could prove crucial as they seek to bounce back from their opening round disappointment.
Fans will be watching closely to see how both teams adapt their strategies, particularly given the interchange rule changes that add an extra tactical dimension to squad rotation throughout the 80-minute contest.