By Jacob Shteyman in Canberra
Canberra have received a boost ahead of their crucial qualifying final against Brisbane, star forward Josh Papalii cleared to play just before kick-off.
The Raiders’ most-capped player was in a race against the clock to overcome an ankle injury suffered in training more than a week ago.
Shortly before Sunday’s clash got under way at a sold-out GIO Stadium, Canberra confirmed Papalii would start alongside captain Joe Tapine in the front row.
English-born second-rower Matty Nicholson will be on standby as 18th man.
The 33-year-old has been a stand-out for the Raiders this season, earning a Queensland State of Origin recall and a one-year contract extension to keep him in Canberra until the end of 2026.
The Broncos escaped an injury blow of their own, with star fullback Reece Walsh overcoming a calf injury sustained in training to be named in the visitors’ starting squad.
The Raiders defeated Brisbane 32-22 in their only previous clash this season, way back in round two.
The winner of Sunday’s clash will progress to week three of finals, while the loser will host Cronulla in a sudden-death showdown next weekend.
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