Ezra Mam to Return via Queensland Cup After Lengthy Suspension, Broncos Take Cautious Approach
Ezra Mam has completed his nine-game suspension, but the Brisbane Broncos won’t be rushing him straight back into their NRL lineup. Coach Michael Maguire has chosen to ease the 22-year-old back into action through the Queensland Cup, where Mam will feature for affiliate side Souths Logan against the Townsville Blackhawks on Sunday.
Despite the Broncos suffering a heavy 32-8 defeat to the Penrith Panthers during Magic Round at Suncorp Stadium, Mam won’t be in the side to face South Sydney this Friday. Maguire is opting for a measured approach, mindful of Mam’s time away from top-level competition.
During Sunday’s loss, Mam — who was watching from the sidelines — was met with boos when shown on the big screen at Suncorp Stadium. The response, even at his home ground, highlighted the backlash he still faces following his drug-driving scandal. The crowd reaction was intensified by the diverse supporter base present during Magic Round.
Mam’s public image took a major hit after he pleaded guilty to drug driving last October, when he crashed into an Uber while unlicensed and under the influence of cocaine. The incident earned him a six-month driving ban, an $850 court fine, and NRL sanctions totaling $120,000. While some critics viewed the punishment as lenient, Mam entered rehab and later issued a public apology in February, admitting he had let down himself, the club, and the fans.
Coach Maguire addressed Mam’s situation after Sunday’s match, noting that the young playmaker still needs to regain key components of his game — particularly defensively — before returning to NRL duties.
“There are parts of his game that need more reps, especially defensively,” Maguire said. “He’ll be ready if called upon, but we want to make sure he’s truly prepared before stepping back into first grade.”
While veterans Adam Reynolds and Ben Hunt have formed a solid halves pairing, both are seen as stylistically similar. Mam offers a different dimension with his explosive running and unpredictability, which could add spark to Brisbane’s attack. When deemed ready, Mam is expected to reclaim the No.6 jersey, likely shifting Hunt to hooker, Billy Walters to the bench, and Cory Paix out of the squad.
With Brisbane currently sitting at 5-4, Maguire believes there’s no need to rush Mam’s return, emphasizing that the playmaker has done everything possible to position himself for selection when the time is right.
