Payne Haas Focuses on Broncos Return Amid State of Origin Speculation
Payne Haas has confirmed that he is fully fit and prepared for a potential return to the State of Origin stage, but he admits that his immediate focus is not on helping New South Wales secure the series. The Brisbane Broncos enforcer has been a consistent presence for the Blues since his debut in 2019, missing only four potential games. However, this time, he found himself watching from the comfort of his couch, which was an unusual experience for him.
Haas admitted to feeling anxious until the controversial send-off of Queensland fullback Kalyn Ponga in the 57th minute during the recent match. He had been ruled out of the first game due to a knee injury sustained in a round seven clash with the Wests Tigers. Despite this, he has been named for his NRL comeback against the Dragons at Suncorp Stadium on Sunday.
Although New South Wales managed to clinch a 22-20 victory over Queensland, three of their tries came after Ponga’s dismissal for what referee Ashley Klein deemed a shoulder charge on Tolu Koula. The decision sparked debate among pundits and fans, with many arguing that it was a head clash, despite Ponga not wrapping his arms as he braced for the collision.
Interestingly, no Blues forward surpassed 100 running metres in the match, and Newcastle prop Jacob Saifiti was not used. Haas, however, insists that his primary concern is helping the Broncos recover from a three-game losing streak rather than competing for a spot in the state team for the second game on June 17.
“I think I’ll just stay present here and worry about my footy here. Obviously, we’re in a bit of a slump at the moment, so I just want to get back to playing Broncos footy and try to get the win this week,” Haas said.
“You get what you deserve. When we get there [to game two selections] we’ll cross that bridge, but obviously playing for your state is always a blessing and it’s a huge honour.”
Haas admitted that he felt nervous until Ponga was sent off, after which he became more confident. “I’m just glad the boys got the win; they stuck tough and got the win, so that’s all that matters.”
Despite the possibility of being fit for the Broncos’ Magic Round clash with the Warriors, which took place the day before Origin selections, Haas said he was never going to be ready to perform at his best for NSW. “I knew the extent of my injury and I had to be pretty cautious with it and make sure I’m right for the Broncos first and foremost. That’s my whole focus,” he explained.
Haas is making his return to the Broncos at a crucial point in their season, as the team begins to reduce the number of players sidelined due to injuries. Ahead of the Magic Round, the Broncos had 13 players out due to injuries, suspensions, and personal reasons. However, Haas will be joined by Kotoni Staggs, Brendan Piakura, Grant Anderson, and Jack Gosiewski, who were also absent during the Warriors’ defeat.
Haas believes that the injury toll, which now includes edge forward Jordan Riki, who underwent foot surgery for a plantar fascia issue, was not the main cause of the club’s struggles. Instead, he pointed to their own lack of discipline as the key issue.
However, Haas is confident that his return will come without the concerns that have affected his season. He warned that he will be back as a more intimidating presence than before. “It’s been a blessing in disguise, to be honest, being injured – just sitting back, observing and having a look at where we can improve as a team and as an individual. I’ve been looking at myself and my own game, and obviously having that has been a blessing,” he said.
“I’m 100 per cent ready to go, I trained with the team fully the other day, so I’m ready to go, and I’m excited.”
