Brisbane Broncos have parted ways with controversial forward Tevita Pangai Jr as the club’s disastrous NRL season continues to spiral, dropping them to the bottom of the ladder. The decision to cut ties with Pangai Jr comes amid growing frustration within the club over ill-discipline and off-field controversies, with the Tongan international repeatedly breaching COVID-19 protocols and team standards.
The 25-year-old, who was contracted until the end of 2022, had been stood down earlier in the season for attending a barber shop in breach of biosecurity rules. Despite returning to training, Broncos management decided to terminate his contract in a move signalling a shift towards rebuilding and restoring club culture.
Pangai Jr’s departure follows Brisbane’s humiliating string of losses, culminating in a heavy defeat that saw them sink to last place on the ladder — a historic low for the once-proud powerhouse. Interim coach Peter Gentle and CEO Paul White both cited the need for cultural change and accountability as key reasons for the decision.
As the Broncos enter crisis mode, fans and former players are calling for a complete overhaul, with Pangai Jr’s exit expected to be the first of several tough calls to reshape the club’s future.
Leave a Reply