Michael Maguire Dismisses Clash Rumours With Karmichael Hunt as Broncos Focus on Finals Push

Maguire Plays Down Heated Exchange Reports

Brisbane Broncos coach Michael Maguire has rejected suggestions of a serious confrontation with Queensland Cup coach Karmichael Hunt, insisting the pair maintain an excellent working relationship despite reports of a sideline disagreement over Billy Walters' position.

The speculation emerged after reports claimed Maguire confronted Hunt during Souths Logan Magpies' clash with the Brisbane Tigers, asking for Walters to be moved back to hooker so the Broncos coaching staff could better assess him ahead of a possible NRL recall.

Speaking to reporters on Wednesday, Maguire described Hunt as "exceptional" and dismissed any notion of lingering tension.

"We work really well with the affiliate clubs," Maguire said. "The three coaches I work with are exceptional."

Incident Revolved Around Billy Walters

According to reports, Walters had started the Queensland Cup match at dummy-half before an injury forced Hunt to reshuffle his lineup, moving the experienced playmaker into the halves.

Maguire, watching from his car, reportedly called over to Hunt and asked whether Walters could return to hooker so Brisbane could evaluate his readiness for an NRL comeback.

The Broncos coach explained that the conversation was straightforward and entirely professional.

"I said, 'Hey K, is there any way you might be able to get Bill back into nine? I'm keen to look at him for this week.'"

Maguire added that he also told Hunt to prioritize his own team if necessary.

"If he needs to stay at seven, he stays at seven."

Hunt: No Bad Blood Between Us

Former Australian international Karmichael Hunt also poured cold water on reports of an argument.

While acknowledging that the discussion happened during the intensity of a live match, Hunt insisted both coaches understood each other's responsibilities.

"Our fullback went down with a hamstring injury and I had to move players around," Hunt explained.

He admitted his tone may have sounded sharp in the heat of the moment but stressed there was never any personal conflict.

"We're trying to win our games and he has to win his games."

"There are no issues at our end."

Broncos Comfortable With Affiliate Club Model

The discussion also reignited debate over whether Brisbane should establish its own reserve-grade side instead of relying on feeder clubs including Souths Logan, Wynnum Manly and Burleigh.

While Maguire acknowledged having a dedicated reserve-grade team offers advantages, he believes the current system has served Brisbane well.

"It helps the players being able to play together," he said.

"But our model has worked, and whatever direction the club goes, I'll be happy with."

The Broncos have traditionally spread contracted players across multiple Queensland Cup teams, allowing them to gain regular game time while maintaining close communication with affiliate coaches.

Billy Walters Still Waiting for NRL Return

Despite training strongly and being named in Brisbane's extended squad, Walters will not return to NRL action against Penrith this week.

The experienced utility is continuing his comeback after recovering from the ACL injury suffered during last year's finals series.

Walters recently expressed confidence that he is physically ready to return, saying he has gradually regained confidence after building minutes in Queensland Cup.

However, Maguire has opted to give him additional time before recalling him to first-grade football.

Riccio: Broncos Have Final Say

NRL reporter David Riccio believes Maguire was entirely justified in requesting Walters be evaluated in his preferred position.

Speaking on NRL 360, Riccio argued that because the Broncos employ Walters, the club ultimately has the authority to determine how he is used when playing for an affiliate side.

"The Broncos pay Billy Walters' wages," Riccio said.

"So the Broncos should have the final say."

Broncos Turn Attention to Panthers Clash

With the speculation now firmly behind him, Maguire's focus remains on Thursday night's crucial showdown against the Penrith Panthers.

Brisbane are hoping to welcome back experienced halves Adam Reynolds and Ezra Mam in the coming weeks as they continue pushing to finish the season strongly.

For Maguire, maintaining close cooperation with the Broncos' feeder clubs remains a key part of that mission, regardless of outside speculation.

"To the credit of Karmichael, he works well with us," Maguire said.

"I'm trying to give him as many players as I can so he can win too."

The Broncos will now look to let their football do the talking as they continue their pursuit of a late-season surge.