NRL: Brisbane's plight may call tune for Lockyer

Darren Lockyer. Photo / Greg Bowker

BRISBANE - Everything points to Darren Lockyer putting his young, struggling Brisbane Broncos first and announcing the end of his great representative career.

The Australian and Queensland captain is expected to reveal his long-awaited decision tomorrow.

He may opt for a representative farewell in Melbourne next month against the Kiwis, but that would likely be it.

Quite simply, Lockyer, at age 33, has served his time for Queensland, through 30 Origin matches, and Australia, in 50 tests, over more than a decade.

He couldn't go out on a higher note, having led Queensland to its record fourth successive Origin series win and Australia to Four Nations triumph in his last test appearance.

Contrary to some opinions, Lockyer doesn't owe Brisbane anything, having got his opportunity there as a teenager in 1995.

He's more than paid that debt during 300 games over 16 years, contributing hugely to four premierships.

But in their latest hour of need, with so many young, inexperienced players and a crippling injury toll that includes big names Justin Hodges, Israel Folau and Corey Parker, Lockyer will feel an obligation as captain.

Lockyer knows Brisbane need him more than ever but he also knows they respect his right to make his decision without pressure from them.

If he elects to continue his representative career it will come at a big cost to the Broncos whom history shows go through tough times during the annual State of Origin series.

No less than nine Broncos players who took the field on Good Friday against the Sydney Roosters were aged 21 or less and their inexperience showed, even with Lockyer doing his best to hold things together.

They are players of the future, but they need guidance and leadership. They need Darren Lockyer.

A few months ago a fresh Lockyer, with a full complement of players on deck and a halves back-up in Tim Smith, who has since left for Cronulla, would have been leaning towards going around for Queensland one more time.

But a lot has changed in a short time and the pendulum has swung back the other way.

As he has always said, Lockyer will make his decisions based on whether he believes he can still give his best to Australia, Queensland and the Broncos.

Knowing Lockyer, Brisbane's predicament will be weighing heavily on his mind as he struggles with the question all champions must face.

Has that time arrived?

- AAP