Gehamat Shibasaki’s Contract Dilemma with the Brisbane Broncos
Gehamat Shibasaki is currently navigating a challenging contract situation with the Brisbane Broncos. The 2025 season marked a significant turnaround in his career, as he revitalized his performance and became a key player for the club. However, the ongoing negotiations over a new deal have created uncertainty around his future.
Shibasaki has been with the Broncos since the 2025 preseason, initially joining on a train-and-trial basis. His impressive performances led to him becoming a central figure within the Red Hill-based team. This year, he was instrumental in helping the Broncos secure their first premiership in 19 years. He also made his Queensland Maroons debut in Game 3 last year and represented Australia in three test matches against England during the Ashes series in October.
Despite these achievements, Shibasaki’s current contract has not been extended beyond 2026. According to reports from the Courier Mail, the club is only able to offer him $300,000 per season. This amount is significantly lower than what other players of similar stature are receiving in the NRL. Shibasaki, however, is seeking a more lucrative deal, aiming for a $600,000 price tag for next year and beyond.
A Player with Ambitions and Priorities
Shibasaki has expressed his desire to remain with the Broncos, acknowledging the club’s role in giving him a second chance. “The Broncos are one of my childhood dreams,” he said. However, he also emphasized that family comes first. As a father, his primary responsibility is to provide for his loved ones, which could influence his decision if the financial terms do not meet his expectations.
“I haven’t figured anything out yet,” Shibasaki told the Courier Mail. “I’m just playing footy and trying to do what I can for the boys each week. I’ll let my manager sort all that stuff out. I’m just trying to focus on the footy at the moment.”
He added, “I’ve got to let my footy do the talking before I can talk numbers.” This sentiment reflects his commitment to proving himself on the field before engaging in contract discussions.
A Career Full of Journeyman Stints
Shibasaki’s journey in the NRL has been anything but straightforward. He made his debut for the Broncos in 2018 but later became a journeyman, playing for several clubs including the Knights, Cowboys, and Rabbitohs. His return to the Broncos in 2025 marked a turning point in his career, and he has since become a vital part of the team.
Over the course of his NRL career, Shibasaki has made 65 appearances, scoring 27 tries. His ability to create opportunities on the left edge has made him a dangerous threat for opposing teams.
Similar Situations in the NRL
Shibasaki’s situation is not unique. A similar scenario unfolded with Selwyn Cobbo, another player who struggled to secure a long-term deal with the Broncos. After five seasons with the club, Cobbo moved to the Dolphins, where he rekindled his career and is now set to return to the Origin arena with the Maroons.
This highlights the challenges faced by players who are looking for better financial compensation but may not be able to find it within their current teams. For Shibasaki, the coming months will be crucial as he continues to perform on the field while waiting for a resolution to his contract dispute.
Preparing for the Future
Currently, Shibasaki is preparing for Wednesday night’s match, where he has been named on the six-man bench for the Queensland Maroons. His focus remains on contributing to the team’s success, regardless of the uncertainty surrounding his future.
As the negotiations continue, Shibasaki’s actions on the field will play a significant role in determining his next steps. Whether he stays with the Broncos or explores other opportunities, his journey serves as a reminder of the complexities involved in professional rugby league contracts.
