Explosive back rower Brendan Piakura has been declared a starter as the Broncos prepare to unleash their powerful version of Sonny Bill Williams against the Roosters in Las Vegas on Sunday (AEST).
The Broncos received a big boost on Tuesday (AEDT) with Biakura (knee) vacated to take his place in the starting lineup for Brisbane's historic MLS opener at Allegiant Stadium in Vegas.
Biakura looks long in contention for a first-round appearance after the young gun in the back row suffered MCL damage in his impressive effort in the Cowboys' trial defeat two weeks ago.
But the Cook Islands Test star has made an amazing recovery, running strong in the final two training sessions in Brisbane to ensure he replaces Warriors recruit Kurt Capewell at the Broncos' left edge.
While his left knee has been severely strapped on Byakura over the past week, the 21-year-old is confident that a minor sprain to his anterior cruciate ligament will withstand the physical encounter with the Roosters' big side.
“It was just a scratch, I'm a fast healer,” Byakura said with a sarcastic smile.
“The knee feels good – I'm ready to go.
“When I first did it, I had doubts in my mind, but we have amazing physiotherapists here looking after me and they have gotten me to where I am now.
“Everything looks good now.”
Originally published as NRL Teams Las Vegas: Latest Round 1 news for Broncos, Roosters, Sea Eagles and Rabbitohs
