Brisbane Broncos Drop Star Centre Shibasaki Over Alcohol Breach Before Storm Match

Brisbane Broncos have dropped star centre Gehamat Shibasaki for a disciplinary breach involving a boozy night out that affected his training, ahead of a crucial match against the Melbourne Storm. Coach Michael Maguire emphasized the importance of team culture and consequences, noting that Shibasaki broke a pact among players to abstain from alcohol during the finals push. The decision, supported by the club's senior leadership, came after Shibasaki reportedly arrived at Monday training 'worse for wear' following the Sunday night celebrations. Shibasaki, who has scored 15 tries in 22 games this season and played a key role in Queensland's State of Origin win, was named on the extended bench but lost his starting spot. The Broncos face a high-stakes game where a win would secure a top-four finish, critical since no team has won the NRL title from outside that position in the current era. The team has rearranged its backline with Deine Mariner moving to centre and Jesse Arthars recalled to the wing to cover Shibasaki's absence.