Cobbo’s Suncorp Return: A New Chapter in the Battle for Brisbane
Selwyn Cobbo, a name synonymous with the Brisbane Broncos for five seasons, is set to make a highly anticipated return to Suncorp Stadium this Friday night. However, this time, the gifted winger will be donning the colours of their fierce rivals, the Dolphins, and will be running out from the away sheds to face his former teammates for the very first time.
The young man from Cherbourg, blessed with an extraordinary physical presence and a natural talent for the game, carved out a significant legacy at the Broncos. Over 83 appearances, Cobbo notched an impressive 49 tries, establishing himself as a potential future superstar of the sport. His journey with the Broncos was one that fulfilled a childhood dream, but last season saw a shift in fortunes, with Cobbo finding himself playing reserve grade, a situation that ultimately led to a surprising move.
A salary cap squeeze at the Broncos paved the way for Cobbo to sign a one-year deal with the Dolphins, setting the stage for a mouth-watering “Battle for Brisbane.” This clash gains extra spice with both clubs entering the match on the back of impressive victories in round three, promising a fiercely contested encounter.
Speaking after scoring a try in his side’s commanding win over the Sharks last Saturday, Cobbo expressed his eagerness to face his former club. “I can’t wait (to play against my) old club. I’m pretty excited. Can’t wait,” he stated. He reflected on his time at the Broncos, acknowledging, “Growing up I always wanted to play for the Broncos, but you know, it is what it is. I’m just excited to play against my old club, my old teammates. We’re mates off the field, but on the field it’s time to go to work. I’ve got to do what’s best for my team.”
Cobbo is adamant that he has nothing to prove to his former club, especially after watching from the sidelines as the Broncos went on to win last year’s grand final. “It’s only the start of the year so there’s more to come,” he said, looking ahead. “Just still trying to find my rhythm in this team and where I can fit in. Time will come and I can’t wait for that moment to come.”
While some athletes might engage in social media banter with former teammates, Cobbo prefers to let his actions on the field speak for themselves. For the 23-year-old former State of Origin representative, this emotional night will be about focus and performance. “I’ll just wait until we’re on the field. I’m not really a banter guy,” he admitted. “I’m just excited. Facing my old club and old teammates (will be fun). They’ve done a lot for me and I just can’t wait to go on the field and have a good game.”
Cobbo has found a welcoming environment at the Dolphins, highlighting the camaraderie within his new team. “Since day one, the boys (at the Dolphins) accepted me with open arms and it’s been fun ever since I’ve been here. I’m enjoying the trip – no, I’m loving it. The boys are good, they look after me and I look after them.”
Adding another layer to the narrative is the reunion of Cobbo with Herbie Farnworth. The English centre, who also played alongside Cobbo in the 2023 decider for the Broncos, has now joined him at the Dolphins and is proving to be a formidable force at left centre.
The pair have quickly developed a potent combination on the left edge for the Dolphins. Farnworth spoke proudly of Cobbo’s transition and his current form. “He’s happy here at the Dolphins, so I think it’s showing on the footy field,” Farnworth commented. “I finally got him a little bit of good ball, so (he scored a) very impressive try at the end. That’s what he can do. He’s a freaky player.” This reunion and their emerging partnership are undoubtedly key assets for the Dolphins as they continue to make their mark on the competition.
The upcoming clash at Suncorp Stadium promises to be more than just a game; it’s a personal milestone for Cobbo and a significant chapter in the burgeoning rivalry between Brisbane’s two NRL clubs. The stage is set for an emotionally charged and fiercely competitive encounter as Cobbo aims to prove his worth and lead his new team to victory against his former employers.
