State of Origin star Gehamat Shibasaki is off contract at the end of 2026, and rival clubs are already circling as he prepares to hit the open market on November 1.
The Brisbane Broncos and Queensland Maroons centre has enjoyed a breakout year, rising from a train-and-trial deal to making his Origin debut thanks to his relentless work ethic and persistence.
According to Brent Read on Triple M’s NRL Daily, the Perth Bears who are assembling their inaugural roster ahead of their 2027 NRL entry have shown strong interest in Shibasaki, despite his current deal at Red Hill running through 2026.
With the Broncos facing a salary cap squeeze due to big-money contracts for stars like Kotoni Staggs, Ezra Mam, and Reece Walsh, a departure remains a real possibility.
Shibasaki’s manager, Wade Rushton, told Wide World of Sports:
“Gehamat loves the Broncos after the season he’s had and is contracted to them for next year. But they haven’t been able to extend beyond that, and come November 1, I’m expecting several clubs to lodge formal interest. He’s had a fantastic year, a great story, and he’ll keep working hard on his game.”
Beyond his immediate future, Shibasaki has his sights set on another dream teaming up with his younger brother Jamal Shibasaki, currently contracted to the North Queensland Cowboys until the end of 2025 and also tipped as a potential target for the Perth Bears.
Speaking to Zero Tackle, Shibasaki said:
“My dream is for me and him to play in the same NRL team together. Even though we’re seven years apart, we’re really close. I want to set that example for him and make his path easier than mine. I’ll take the tough yards if it means he can succeed. I just want him to play consistent NRL footy and get all the accolades he deserves.”
