The 2025 NRL Grand Final has become a tale of unexpected twists, with Brisbane Broncos forward Ben Talty now at the center of a major controversy after being axed from the squad for the decider. This decision has sparked widespread debate among fans and analysts alike, as the 26-year-old midseason recruit’s sudden relegation from the starting lineup has raised questions about his role in the team’s strategy. Here's where it gets controversial: Why would a player who had already earned a spot in the preliminary final win over the Panthers be discarded for the grand final, especially when he was on the bench for the first time in his career?
The story began earlier this season when Talty, a 26-year-old rookie, was brought into the fold during the mid-season period. While he contributed to the Broncos’ victory over the Panthers in the preliminary final, his absence in the grand final lineup has left many wondering if his value was overstated. Code Sports reported that Talty will serve as the 18th man for the clash against the Melbourne Storm, a move that has been met with mixed reactions. Some argue that his inclusion was a strategic gamble, while others question whether the Broncos’ coaching staff made the right call.
Pat Carrigan, who will return from suspension, is set to replace Talty in the lineup, further complicating the narrative. Meanwhile, Broncos coach Michael Maguire faces a tougher challenge as Ezra Mam, the team’s sparkplug, returns from injury. Mam provided crucial support in the come-from-behind win against the Panthers, and his potential inclusion in the starting lineup has ignited discussions about the team’s depth. However, NRL legend Cooper Cronk has taken a strong stance, arguing that Mam should remain on the bench. 'He was good in the preliminary final, but I don’t think he should be pushed to the front,' Cronk said, emphasizing the importance of maintaining his explosiveness. 'Ezra starts off the bench, and I like what Ben Hunt and Adam Reynolds do early on.'
Cronk highlighted how Mam’s ability to exploit a tired opponent—such as Xavier Willison in the match against the Panthers—was key to the team’s success. He stressed the need to keep Mam fresh and his running game on track, suggesting that the Broncos should prioritize his endurance over rushing him into the starting lineup. This perspective contrasts with the idea that Talty’s removal could be a calculated move to build depth.
The Grand Final showdown is set for October 23rd at Accor Stadium, with the Melbourne Storm facing the Brisbane Broncos. The Storm’s roster includes star players like Ryan Papenhuyzen and Jack Howarth, while the Broncos boast a lineup featuring Reece Walsh, Josiah Karapani, and Ezra Mam. Talty’s exclusion leaves the Broncos with a critical need to rely on their bench, particularly Mam, who has shown promise in high-pressure situations.
As the debate continues, fans and experts alike are left to ponder: Was Talty’s dismissal a necessary sacrifice for the team’s future, or was it a missed opportunity to showcase his talent? The answer may lie in the nuances of the game, the coaching decisions, and the evolving dynamics of the NRL. But for now, the 2025 Grand Final remains a defining moment in rugby league history, one that promises both drama and revelation.
