In a bold move, Broncos coach Anthony Griffin has opted to thrust Jordan Kahu into his starting side for Saturday night’s NRL elimination final against North Queensland in Townsville.

Considered a long term five-eighth option, the 23-year-old Kahu has played only two NRL games this year – none at centre – and 12 overall.

Yet the Kiwi-born utility is seen by Griffin as the best option to replace injured left centre Jack Reed (shoulder) for their crunch match.

Kahu – who has a history of knee injuries – knocks initial centre selection Corey Oates back to the bench.

Griffin said he had not yet finalised his interchange for the must-win showdown.

Asked why he had opted for Kahu, Griffin said: “He’s our best option.

“He’s done a good job in the centres or on the wing every time he has had an opportunity over the last couple of years.”

Griffin said lanky 19-year-old Oates – who can play centre, back row and wing – offered more value on the bench.

“He (Jordan) is a natural outside back,” Griffin said.

“Corey can do a job there but we see he provides more value on the bench where he can also assist the forwards.

“Jordie is a real classy guy, he’s not a rookie.”

It caps a remarkable comeback by Kahu who feared the worst when he went down with a knee injury in a pre-season trial against the Cowboys in February.

Kahu – who has already undergone two knee reconstructions – breathed a little easier after the match when scans revealed only minor damage.

He missed six weeks before starring for Wynnum Manly in the second tier Queensland Cup.

Regular fullback Josh Hoffman had a light run on Friday but was off the field almost as quickly as he arrived on it as he recovered from a three week ankle injury.

“He only just started running on Wednesday,” Griffin said.

“He is still a week away.”