Man of Steel Contenders: Brodie Croft

Brodie Croft was at a crossroads in 2021. He endured a tough couple of seasons in the spotlight at Brisbane Broncos and joined Salford Red Devils in a bid to regain his love for the game - and he’s done just that. 

Croft has emerged as one of the best halves in Betfred Super League and deservedly earned a spot on the Steve Prescott MBE Man of Steel shortlist.

He joins St Helens starlet Jack Welsby and fellow Australian import, Jai Field, in a bid to win the highest individual honour in Super League.

Fellow Man of Steel nominee and former Junior Kangaroos teammate Jai Field has enjoyed seeing Croft's transformation in Super League this season.

"I think it’s been a real good thing for him to come here [Super League] as well and get back that love of the game – and it’s really showing," Field explained.

“He’s cutting teams to pieces at the moment – he’s always had that ability. It’s good to see.??

"These boys have helped me find my love for the game again." ?????

The @Betfred Player of the Match, Brodie Croft ??#SuperLeague #SLCasSal pic.twitter.com/MY9sI0qCeS
— Betfred Super League (@SuperLeague) August 29, 2022

At Salford, Croft looks right at home. He’s found a place where he can express himself and play without the shackles that inhibited his development in the NRL. Croft has been the protagonist in the Red Devils’ remarkable Play-Off run and a joy to watch in 2022.

His undeniable skill with ball in hand is complimented by an immense durability and toughness that saw him play in every game from Round 1 to Round 26 - an ever-present until the Red Devils secured their top six status in emphatic fashion away at Castleford.

He was named Player of the Match that afternoon thanks to a typically complete performance which guided Salford to victory. It’s no coincidence that Croft’s meteoric rise – particularly in the second half of the season – has coincided with Salford’s Play-Off surge.

Since Round 18, Croft has had a try contribution in every game he’s played. His fingerprints have been all over the Red Devils attack and his influence tenfold. In total, he has assisted 25 Salford tries in 2022 – the fourth most in Betfred Super League.

Brodie, Brodie Croft 🎶🎶

1 try ???
3 assists ??
184 metres ?????♂??
11 tackle busts 💥

Another masterclass for @SalfordDevils in Round 24 ??#SuperLeague pic.twitter.com/ij0pTr8Ei8
— Betfred Super League (@SuperLeague) August 21, 2022

But it isn’t just his skill that sets him apart. Croft is tough. He doesn’t mind putting his body on the line for his team.

He has made more metres and carried the ball more than any other half back in the competition. In the second half of the 2022 regular season, Croft carried the ball for over 100 metres in 11 of the 13 games he starred in. A remarkable stat for any player, but even more so for a half back.

And his unrelenting efforts have been also recognised by fellow Man of Steel finalist Jack Welsby.

“He’s been outstanding. When you’re putting names on a tip sheet, Brodie Croft is the Salford danger,?? Welsby stated.

“He runs the ball really well, he’s smart and he’s got a good kicking game. He definitely deserves his spot.??

The winner of this season's Steve Prescott MBE Man of Steel award will be revealed on Tuesday 20 September during the 2022 Betfred Super League awards night. 

Fans will be able to watch the unveiling of the 2022 Man of Steel live on Betfred Super League’s YouTube channel here.