Stopping Latrell
BRISBANE legend Steve Renouf says young centre Gehamat Shibasaki faces the biggest challenge of his embryonic NRL career on Friday night when he comes up against Roosters star Latrell Mitchell.
Broncos coach Anthony Seibold yesterday named 21year-old Shibasaki on the right edge for their Round 10 clash at Suncorp Stadium as a replacement for out-offavour centre James Roberts.
It was shaping as an enticing battle between the two New South Wales incumbents and good friends, Roberts and Mitchell, but the Broncos flyer has instead
been named on the extended bench.
Roberts’ exclusion from the starting squad has now opened the door for young Shibasaki who will play just his fourth NRL game this weekend.
The Townsville junior was impressive on the right wing during the Broncos win over
Manly in last week’s Magic Round, when he ran for 123m, made two tackle busts and a line break.
Seibold has rewarded the youngster with another stint in the run-on side this week, which will pit him against Mitchell who has been one of the best players in the competition this year.
Mitchell was at his damaging best against the Raiders last week at Suncorp Stadium, scoring a double and returning to the field after suffering what appeared to be a serious groin injury.
He has since been cleared to play and former Broncos centre Renouf said it was going to be a hard task for young Shibasaki.
“He’s been thrown in the fire there a bit,” Renouf said.
“We’re all seeing at the moment what Latrell is doing so it’s a big test for (Shibasaki).
“Without a doubt, this is his biggest challenge so far.
“Latrell’s arguably the No.1 centre in the game right now so it’s a bit of pressure.”