Versatile Tyson Smoothy has edged out rookie cult hero Ben Talty for a bench spot in the NRL decider against Melbourne, as Ezra Mam retains his No. 14 position.
Test forward Pat Carrigan returns from suspension at lock, where Smoothy started last week in the 16-14 preliminary win over Penrith.
Broncos coach Michael Maguire resisted the temptation to start 2023 grand final hat-trick magician Mam at five-eighth.
He made his way back into the side after a seven-week hamstring lay-off.
Ben Hunt has retained his No. 6 position in the named line-up while Cory Paix stays at No. 9.
Smoothy, 26, played in the 2023 grand final loss to the Panthers and does offer more cover for Maguire.
A hooker by trade, he can also play as a middle forward.
It was a tough call for Maguire with Smoothy leaving for Super League club Wakefield Trinity next season.
Talty, also 26, has been a revelation off the bench in his first year of NRL after previously toiling away at North Sydney Bears in the NSW Cup.
The Muswellbrook Ram arrived at the club on a train-and-trial deal mid-season.
Since then, he’s been a key figure in the Broncos’ stunning run to the decider, winning nine of the 10 matches he has played.
That’s earned him an upgrade to the top squad and a two-year extension.
Despite not making the cut for the playing 17, Talty was available at Brisbane’s media session on Monday where he spoke of his pride in what he and the club had achieved.
“It’s such a good feeling and I’m so proud of the boys for what they have worked so hard for,” he said.
“I was fortunate to become a part of this club halfway through the year and… we’re in a position to play in a grand final.
“The boys have worked so hard to be here.
“I really dialled into my off-season and gave myself the best possible opportunity in pre-season to make a mark.
“I just love being part of this club.
“To be where I am now when I was at North Sydney a few months ago, it’s been a remarkable journey for me.”
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