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Brisbane Locks Down “Benji-like Prospect” in Halves Talent Race
The Brisbane Broncos, already boasting one of the strongest talent pipelines in the competition, have made a significant move to secure their long-term dominance by upgrading and extending the contract of teenage sensation Calvin Harris-Tavita. The young halfback, often compared to legendary playmakers like Benji Marshall and Shaun Johnson, is now firmly committed to the club, signaling a major victory for the Broncos in the competitive landscape of NRL recruitment.
According to reports from Code Sports, the extension solidifies the future of the 16-year-old New Zealand prospect. The younger brother of seasoned Warriors playmaker Chanel Harris-Tavita, Calvin was initially signed by the Broncos earlier this year. However, his subsequent breakout performances in the 2025 season have compelled the club to act swiftly to secure his services for years to come, confirming his status as one of the highest-rated youngsters in rugby league.
The Aura of Flair: Why Harris-Tavita Draws Superstar Comparisons
Calvin Harris-Tavita’s ascent has been meteoric. His performances starring for King’s College in the demanding Auckland Schools Championships showcased a level of flair and attacking instincts rarely seen in players his age. It is this natural creativity and ability to unlock defenses that has drawn immediate comparisons to two of the most celebrated and mercurial figures in the sport’s modern era: Benji Marshall and Shaun Johnson.
The comparison is not just based on audacious plays; it’s about a unique vision and the ability to execute the unexpected—a quality highly valued in a halfback or five-eighth. The Broncos clearly see in Harris-Tavita the potential for an elite playmaker, one who can provide the clutch moments and excitement synonymous with the Marshall/Johnson mold.
The quick contract upgrade reflects the heightened competition for halves talent across the National Rugby League. Clubs are constantly battling to identify and retain young playmakers, and the Broncos’ decisive action ensures this generational talent remains within their successful system, rather than risking losing him to a rival club or a burgeoning New Zealand Rugby League program.
A Major Win for Brisbane’s Recruitment Strategy
The news was immediately hailed as a major recruitment win, particularly by figures within the game who recognize the value of securing Kiwi talent early. New Zealand Rugby League CEO Greg Peters publicly acknowledged the significance of the signing, describing it as “a great signing for the Broncos, absolutely.”
Peters’ comment underscores the cross-Tasman battle for the best emerging players. For the Broncos, retaining Harris-Tavita is more than just securing a skilled player; it’s a testament to their ability to attract and develop the top talent emerging from the formidable rugby league nursery in New Zealand.
The long-term extension provides Harris-Tavita with the stability and professional pathways required to transition from a highly-touted schoolboy prospect to a first-grade NRL star. Under the guidance of the Broncos’ coaching staff and surrounded by their elite roster, he will have the ideal environment to hone the skills that have already earned him such glittering comparisons.
This strategic move reinforces the Broncos’ commitment to building a dynasty anchored by elite youth. With Harris-Tavita now locked in, the club has solidified the key positions in its future spine, promising years of excitement for the club’s faithful supporters.