The Brisbane Broncos have provided a comprehensive update on the status of three key players dealing with injuries, ahead of the critical State of Origin period. The club revealed mixed news regarding the conditions of Tristan Sailor, Benjamin Te Kura, and Billy Walters, impacting the team’s depth and immediate plans.
**Billy Walters’ Encouraging Progress**
Billy Walters, the versatile hooker, is set to miss this weekend’s Magic Round clash against the Manly Sea Eagles due to a wrist injury. However, there is optimism surrounding his return. Broncos head of performance Dave Ballard confirmed Walters picked up a wrist ligament strain against the Tigers and aggravated it during last Friday’s game against the Eels.
“Billy is recovering well,” Ballard stated in a club release. “We will take a conservative approach and have him sit out this week. He is a chance to play next week, but we will be guided by his progress in training.”
Walters’ potential return next weekend against the Gold Coast Titans in a local derby brings some relief to the Broncos, who are navigating a series of injuries.
**Tristan Sailor Faces Extended Layoff**
On a more concerning note, Tristan Sailor has suffered a high ankle sprain that will require surgery, sidelining him for 4-6 weeks. Sailor sustained the injury while playing for Souths Logan and will begin his rehabilitation following the operation.
“Tristan will miss 4-6 weeks with a high ankle sprain picked up playing for Souths Logan in the same game as Ben. He will have surgery this week and move into his rehab program once the injury settles down,” Ballard explained.
This timeline rules Sailor out until at least Round 14, potentially extending past the second State of Origin match. The Broncos’ bye weeks before Origins 1 and 2 provide some buffer, but Sailor’s absence will still be felt.
**Benjamin Te Kura’s Season-Ending Injury**
The most severe update involves Benjamin Te Kura, who has sustained a significant Lisfranc injury in his foot. This type of injury typically requires an extensive recovery period, and Te Kura will be out for at least four months.
“Ben suffered a serious injury to his Lisfranc joint while playing for Souths Logan Magpies in the HostPlus Cup over the weekend and will require surgery in the next few days,” Ballard reported. “He will need at least four months of recovery time, and the club will provide him with all the support he requires during his rehabilitation.”
Te Kura’s injury effectively ends his season, and he will now focus on preparing for the 2025 campaign, aiming to secure consistent first-grade playing time.
### Moving Forward
The Broncos, currently grappling with these injury setbacks, are determined to maintain their competitive edge as the State of Origin series approaches. The return of Billy Walters will be crucial in stabilizing the squad, while the absences of Sailor and Te Kura necessitate strategic adjustments.
The club’s medical team continues to monitor the players’ progress closely, ensuring they receive the best possible care and rehabilitation support. As the Broncos navigate this challenging period, their resilience and depth will be put to the test, with hopes high for a strong performance in the coming weeks.
