NRL news 2023 | Cameron Smith, Johnathan Thurston to award ‘Battle Medal’, Dolphins v Broncos
Legendary Queenslanders Cameron Smith and Johnathan Thurston will bestow Friday night’s ‘Battle of Brisbane’ man of the match with a new medal.
The so-called ‘Battle Medal’ will be won by the best player afield in every clash between the Broncos and the Dolphins, starting with their first battle in the NRL. The winner of the award will be picked by Nine commentators Smith and Thurston.
The medal was agreed upon by the two clubs as they embark on a fresh local rivalry that is set to breathe new life into the competition.
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Whoever wins the first Battle Medal will have starred in front of a full house at Suncorp Stadium, with the 50,000 capacity cauldron sold out for the top of the table clash.
“There has been an unbelievable amount of excitement around this first battle game and we are so proud that the first ever Dolphins-Broncos game is a sellout,” Dolphins CEO Terry Reader said.
“It ensures this will be a night to remember for not only the players, but the members and fans of both clubs.
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“We believe the Battle Medal will grow into a prestigious honour for players over the coming years as this amazing rivalry continues to grow.”
Broncos’ chief executive Dave Donaghy agreed.
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“Suncorp Stadium has been the home of the Broncos for 20 years, and we are looking forward to yet another exciting derby, and beginning this tradition,” Donaghy said.
“This medal is bound to bring plenty of joy for fans and plenty of pride for the players who run out there to battle for the honour.”
Friday night’s Broncos v Dolphins clash will be broadcast live and free on Nine, with the coverage starting at 7.30pm (AEDT).
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