Worst day of my life: “I Shouldn’t Have Left the Broncos” Hunt cries, as he Admits Contract Regret, Reveals “Different sad treatment” Before Return as he gets real about what is keeping him in Brisbane broncos, “comes rain” comes shine….
When veteran halfback Ben Hunt finally opened up about his turbulent journey away from the Brisbane Broncos and his eventual return to the club, his words carried both honesty and weight. “I shouldn’t have left the Broncos,” Hunt admitted, in a candid reflection on a career that has had both glittering highs and deeply challenging lows. His revelation comes as Brisbane prepare for another season with their former playmaker back in familiar colours, and fans are once again debating what could have been had Hunt stayed in Red Hill all along.
From Rising Star to Painful Exit
Hunt’s career with the Broncos began with promise. Coming through the club’s system as a highly touted junior, he was tipped to be the halfback to lead Brisbane into a new era. His speed off the mark, clever kicking game, and sharp football instincts made him one of the NRL’s most exciting young talents.
However, his time at the club will forever be remembered by one moment: the infamous dropped ball in the 2015 NRL Grand Final against the North Queensland Cowboys. In golden point, Hunt misjudged the kickoff, fumbling possession and handing the Cowboys the decisive opportunity to secure their maiden premiership. The error, though only a single moment in a stellar season, haunted both Hunt and the fan base.
It became a turning point. Criticism from sections of the media and supporters was fierce, and by 2017, Hunt sought a fresh start. He signed a lucrative deal with the St George Illawarra Dragons, becoming one of the highest-paid players in the league.
Looking back now, Hunt says the decision was not simply financial. “I thought I needed change,” he revealed. “I felt like I had lost confidence at the Broncos after everything that happened. The offer from the Dragons was massive, and at the time, it felt like the right move for my career and my family. But deep down, I think I underestimated how much Brisbane meant to me.”
“Different Opportunities” Away from Red Hill
Hunt’s years at St George Illawarra brought mixed results. At times, he showed the brilliance that made him a State of Origin mainstay for Queensland, but consistency was an issue. The Dragons as a club were struggling with direction, and Hunt often carried the burden of expectations as their marquee signing.
“Going to the Dragons opened different opportunities for me,” Hunt explained. “I got to grow as a leader, I had to take responsibility in ways I hadn’t before. It made me tougher mentally. But at the same time, there were seasons where I felt like I was on an island. I missed the Broncos system, the culture, and even the city. I didn’t realise how much until I left.”
During his time away, Hunt still featured heavily for Queensland in State of Origin, including being part of the 2020 series victory under Wayne Bennett and the 2022 triumph under Billy Slater. Those experiences, he says, reminded him of the environment he once thrived in at Brisbane.
Regret and the Road Back
The biggest admission from Hunt’s recent comments is his regret. “Looking back, I probably shouldn’t have left,” he said. “Brisbane is home. I had everything I needed there—the teammates, the coaching, the support system. Leaving taught me lessons, but if I had my time again, I think I would’ve stayed and backed myself to get through the tough times.”
Hunt’s return to the Broncos has reignited excitement among fans, particularly those who always believed he was harshly judged for the 2015 grand final error. In training, he has already looked comfortable back in maroon and gold, slotting into the halves with a confidence that suggests unfinished business.
For Hunt, the reunion is about redemption and belonging. “It feels right being back,” he said. “I want to give everything I can to this team, because I know how much the Broncos mean to Queensland and to rugby league. I want to leave a legacy that goes beyond one mistake.”
The Club’s Perspective
Brisbane officials have welcomed Hunt with open arms, understanding both the narrative and the potential impact he brings. Coach Kevin Walters, himself a former Broncos great, said Hunt’s experience is invaluable.
“Ben knows what it means to wear this jersey,” Walters stated. “He’s been through the highs and the lows. That perspective is crucial for our younger players. He’s matured a lot since he left, and you can see that in the way he communicates and leads. Having him back strengthens our spine and gives us another steady hand.”
Younger talents such as Ezra Mam and Reece Walsh stand to benefit from Hunt’s presence. Walters has hinted that Hunt’s role will not just be about playing but mentoring, ensuring the next generation can avoid the pitfalls he once faced.
Fans Split on Return
As with any high-profile return, opinions among fans are divided. Some are ecstatic to see Hunt back in Broncos colours, seeing it as a second chance to finish his career where it began. Others remain sceptical, still scarred by his 2015 error and frustrated that the club originally lost him for such a hefty price tag.
“I’ll never forget that drop,” one long-time supporter admitted, “but at the same time, you can’t let one play define a player. Hunt gave us years of great football. If he helps guide us to a premiership now, all will be forgiven.”
On social media, many fans echoed Hunt’s own admission. “He should never have left,” one user posted. “Glad to have him back. The jersey fits better this time around.”
What Comes Next
For Hunt, the immediate focus is helping Brisbane compete at the top of the NRL ladder again. The club has shown promising signs in recent seasons, with a strong forward pack and electrifying backline talent. Adding Hunt’s organisational skills and kicking game could be the missing piece.
His personal motivation, however, runs deeper. “It’s about proving to myself that I belong here,” Hunt said. “I don’t want to be remembered for one mistake. I want to be remembered for resilience, for giving everything to this club and these fans.”
Whether Hunt can secure that redemption remains to be seen. The NRL is unforgiving, and his return will come with scrutiny. But one thing is certain: Hunt’s story, marked by regret, lessons learned, and a long-awaited homecoming, has added a new chapter to the rich history of the Broncos.
Conclusion
Ben Hunt’s admission—“I shouldn’t have left the Broncos”—is both an acknowledgment of past missteps and a hopeful statement about the future. His years away gave him perspective, but his heart never strayed far from Red Hill. Now, with a renewed sense of purpose and a point to prove, Hunt is back where it all began.
For Broncos fans, his journey is a reminder that careers are defined not just by mistakes or triumphs, but by resilience, growth, and the courage to come home.
Leave a Reply