Corey Oates, a veteran of the Broncos, is reportedly frustrated by his exclusion from Kevin Walters’ squad and his assignment to Brisbane’s new feeder club.
Despite his experience, the 29-year-old was once again not included in Brisbane’s 17-man squad when team lists were revealed on Tuesday, with Jesse Arthars and Deine Mariner chosen as the wingers.
Oates has been assigned to the Burleigh Bears for the 2024 season and is reportedly upset about having to travel 110km from his home in Brisbane, as reported by The Courier Mail.
The Broncos have two other affiliated clubs in Brisbane, Wynnum Manly and Souths Logan, which are both closer for Corey Oates to travel to.
Oates was unexpectedly withdrawn from the Bears’ season opener against the Norths Devils and is reportedly not expected to play against Townsville this week.
Having played 201 games, Oates has reportedly discussed his exclusion from the NRL team with Walters.
“Corey didn’t play on the weekend (for Burleigh) and I don’t think he will play this weekend either,” Walters stated.
“We are just keeping him fresh. I just feel at the moment I want to go with our other two wingers in Deine and Jesse (Arthars).
“It’s hard for Corey, he’s not playing at the moment, but that’s not to say he won’t be back for us at some stage this season.”
Corey Oates’ current contract with the Broncos runs until the end of 2024, and it is uncertain whether he will receive an extension to stay at the Red Hill club.
He is the sole remaining player from the Broncos’ 2015 grand final team and ranks fourth on Brisbane’s all-time try scorers list.
Oates played only nine times in 2023 due to a broken jaw and a knee injury before being omitted prior to the finals series.
Regarding Oates’ involvement with the Bears, Walters remained elusive, stating, “He will get his opportunities, but he just has to be patient.”
