Brisbane coach Anthony Seibold has confirmed James Segeyaro will make his Broncos debut in Friday night’s NRL clash with ladder leaders Sydney Roosters.
Segeyaro – a veteran of 141 NRL games – only arrived at Red Hill on Monday as a mid-season recruit from Cronulla.
Seibold initially named Segeyaro as 18th man but said it made sense to start the PNG international on the bench as back-up for starting hooker Jake Turpin.
Turpin will line up against the all conquering Roosters in just his second NRL match of 2019 and fourth overall filling in for injured incumbent Queensland rake Andrew McCullough (knee).
“James will definitely play. He has come in this week and brought a lot of energy,” Seibold said.
“I just think it is unfair to expect Jake Turpin to play 80 minutes again this week.
“Jake was outstanding last week (in win against Manly) but we got James here for a reason so we will put him on the bench.”
Seibold also admitted 20-year-old Gehamat Shibasaki faced a tough challenge lining up against star Roosters centre Latrell Mitchell.
Seibold surprisingly opted for the three NRL game youngster instead of out of favour NSW speedster James Roberts after star centre Jack Bird suffered a season-ending knee injury in last round’s win over the Sea Eagles.
“Plenty of centres have struggled against Latrell this year but we have great confidence in him (Shibasaki),” Seibold said.
“He’s got so much potential and talent.”
Brisbane enjoyed a morale boosting last round win to move to a 3-6 record.
But Seibold baulked when asked if the Broncos would be out to make a statement about their title credentials against the red hot Roosters.
Seibold said he was not about to make any “ridiculous statements” after the Roosters thrashed Brisbane 36-4 in round four.
“That (making a premiership statement against Roosters) is the last thing on my mind,” he said.
“They (Roosters) are a red hot side. They have got a number of players in their team at the peak of their powers and are current rep players.
“Let’s put things in perspective. We are looking to improve and believe we can get the job done tomorrow night but it will be a hell of a task.”
