Tessa Lee, Sports journalist reporting on global leagues since 2021.
The Manly Sea Eagles have made a significant leadership change, appointing Jake Trbojevic as co-captain alongside his younger brother Tom Trbojevic. The move comes as Tom prepares to return from a hamstring injury and follows a strong period of leadership from Jake while the star fullback was sidelined. The decision was confirmed by coach Kieran Foran, who believes the brothers are the natural leaders of the club.
The leadership reshuffle is one of several changes at Manly following a turbulent start to the season and a remarkable turnaround in form.
Jake rewarded for leadership role
Jake Trbojevic has long been regarded as one of the most respected figures at the Sea Eagles.
With Tom unavailable through injury for much of the season, Jake assumed greater responsibility and helped guide the team through a challenging period.
Foran praised the veteran forward for stepping up when the club needed leadership most.
The coach said the decision to appoint co-captains was straightforward given the influence both Trbojevic brothers have within the squad.
Jake embraced the opportunity and reiterated his commitment to doing whatever is best for the team.
The experienced forward recently committed to continuing his playing career into 2027 after earlier uncertainty about his future.
Tom set for return from injury
Tom Trbojevic is expected to return next week when Manly faces the Canterbury Bulldogs.
The fullback was appointed sole captain before the season following the departure of club legend Daly Cherry Evans to the Sydney Roosters.
His first season as captain was interrupted by injury and team struggles, with Manly losing its opening three matches.
However, the club has recovered strongly and remains in the finals hunt.
The return of Tom is expected to provide another boost to a side that has rediscovered confidence under new leadership.
Having both Trbojevic brothers sharing the captaincy could strengthen stability as Manly approaches the business end of the season.
Olakau’atu named vice-captain
Powerful back rower Haumole Olakau’atu has been appointed sole vice-captain.
The representative forward has enjoyed another strong season and has emerged as an important voice within the playing group.
Foran highlighted both his on field performances and growing leadership qualities.
The appointment comes shortly after Olakau’atu was omitted from the New South Wales squad for State of Origin II.
The decision provides him with additional responsibility at club level and an opportunity to respond positively to representative disappointment.
Broncos face growing injury concerns
Elsewhere, Brisbane captain Adam Reynolds has attempted to ease fears surrounding a potential hamstring injury suffered during the Broncos heavy defeat to South Sydney.
Reynolds appeared uncomfortable after an early sprint and later left the field with ice strapped to his left hamstring.
The veteran playmaker insisted after the game that he was dealing with cramps rather than a significant injury.
The Broncos may also face uncertainty over five eighth Ezra Mam, who suffered an AC joint injury while making a defensive play.
Coach Michael Maguire confirmed Mam struggled to continue but remained hopeful the issue would be manageable.
Maguire remains confident despite losing streak
Brisbane six match losing run has left the defending premiers sitting in the bottom four and under immense pressure.
Despite the poor run of results, Maguire remains optimistic about the club prospects.
The coach pointed to the number of injured key players currently unavailable and believes the team can recover once important personnel return.
Brisbane faces a difficult run home but Maguire insists the season is far from over.
The Broncos will use their upcoming bye to regroup before attempting to reignite their finals campaign.