Gehamat Shibasaki is hoping his selection in the Queensland side can be another turning point in his career as he remains unsigned for the 2027 NRL season.
The 27-year-old Brisbane centre had a breakout season in 2025 where he went from no contract to a new Brisbane deal, Maroons selection, a premiership win and three Tests for Australia on the Ashes tour.
Shibasaki, known as "Gem", was dropped to the bench at the start of this season with the Broncos but won his starting position back.
Maroons coach Billy Slater has shown faith in him after Shibasaki had a superb debut in the State of Origin decider last year, outplaying opposite number Stephen Crichton in a famous 24-12 win.
His selection on the six-man bench for this year's Origin series opener on Wednesday night in Sydney is a reminder that Shibasaki belongs in the elite representative environment.
"I think this can give me my confidence back and believing and backing myself throughout the season," Shibasaki said.
" I can take this back to the Broncos and go on an upward trajectory."
Shibasaki admitted he had "a shaky start to the year" but it was a valuable learning curve.
"Nothing is guaranteed so. It keeps me on my toes and fighting," he said.
"I just needed to get my body right and back to how I was playing last year. Once I get that right I know I can play my best footy."
Shibasaki said his focus was on Origin and would let his manager Wayde Rushton sort out his future.
His preference is to stay at the Broncos but salary cap pressures may prevent that. On a modest salary, Shibasaki said he was open to joining the PNG Chiefs
"I will let my manager sort all of that out," he said.
"I have got a family that I have got to look after but I have got to let my footy do the talking before I can talk numbers.
"I love the Broncos. I am pretty open to (going) anywhere but my footy hasn't been too great at the moment. I can't be talking about contract stuff when I have to focus on staying on the field."
Shibasaki said he would make the most of his Origin selection after shining on debut.
"I can draw on that experience. It felt like I did my job and I will try and continue that form,:" he said.
"It was a tough start to the season but it is always good getting that reassurance and back in this environment with all these professionals."
