Ben Hunt reflects on future opportunities as he eyes a potential return to Brisbane, hoping to end his career with a premiership.
Ben Hunt has revealed he is considering a return to the Brisbane Broncos, believing it would be “special” to return to the club where he began his career and to aim for a long-sought premiership.
Uncontracted and seeking a fresh start, Hunt broke his silence on his recent departure from St George Illawarra while in the Australian Test camp on Sunday. The 34-year-old halfback expressed frustration over the timing of his exit from the Dragons but noted a sense of relief after nearly 18 months of ongoing tension.
Currently, Hunt has not entered into discussions with any clubs and plans to focus on his future only after the Pacific Cup final on Sunday. Still, he’s made it clear that his priority is to join a club with a strong shot at winning the title.
Returning to the Broncos, where Hunt spent much of his early career, is an attractive possibility. Hunt previously left Brisbane after the heartache of their 2015 grand final loss to North Queensland.
“Brisbane will always have a soft spot for me,” Hunt said when asked about rejoining the team. “I’ve been connected to the club since I was 12. They put a lot of work into my development, and finishing my career there would be pretty special. But there are details that need to align to make it work.”
A potential return to Brisbane might hinge on the situation of current five-eighth Ezra Mam, who awaits results from a roadside drug test after a recent unlicensed driving incident. Should Mam be sidelined under the NRL’s no-fault stand-down policy, the Broncos could seek salary-cap relief to bring in a replacement, making Hunt a valuable option for new head coach Michael Maguire.
Broncos vice-captain Pat Carrigan expressed his excitement about the possibility of Hunt’s return, saying, “It would be awesome to have him back. Benny’s a leader, and he brings experience that would benefit any team.”
Hunt’s leadership could also address a need for the Broncos, with CEO Dave Donaghy previously stating that the team requires stronger on-field leadership. Additionally, other clubs, including the Dolphins and the Sydney Roosters, are reportedly interested in Hunt, who is open to staying in Sydney if the opportunity is right.
“I’m open to staying in Sydney,” Hunt said. “No doors are shut, but my main focus is finding a team where I can enjoy playing and seriously contend for a premiership.”
Hunt, who hopes to play for at least two more seasons, said his ultimate goal is to secure his first NRL premiership before retiring.
