SYDNEY, Oct 21 AAP - Brisbane have stepped in to save the NRL's blushes, agreeing to face Warrington in next year's World Club Series in the UK.

Benji Marshall is now a Bronco after signing a one-year deal with Brisbane on Friday.

Benji Marshall knocked back the chance to be the face of the English Super League, a decision which appears justified after the Broncos found a way to squeeze him into their star-studded backline.

Benji Marshall is set to extend his NRL career with the Brisbane Broncos, having reached out to former Kiwi mentor Wayne Bennett.

The Canberra Raiders have thrown a lifeline to former NRL "Coal Train" David Taylor to give him a chance to prove he can still play in the world's best rugby league competition.

But the star centre looks set for a fresh start at Red Hill as he contronts his demons in the same Thai facility that helped Mitchell Pearce get back on track.

Controversial Brisbane NRL centre James Roberts has reportedly checked into a rehab facility in Thailand.

• EXCLUSIVE

Exclusive extract from Corey Parker biography.

Retiring skipper's choice when Wayne Bennett quits.

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Well, North Queensland and Brisbane have done it again.

Johnathan Thurston set up Michael Morgan in extra time as these teams produced another mesmerising contest in their enduring rivalry.

Cronulla will be rested but the Cowboys will head to Sydney stacked with belief as they continue their quest for back-to-back premierships.

Sudden death football has taken on a whole new meaning for North Queensland veteran forward Ben Hannant ahead of Friday night's NRL must-win semi-final against Brisbane in Townsville.

Distance has proved no barrier for North Queensland and Brisbane as they get ready to produce another game for the ages in Friday night's knockout final in Townsville.

Brisbane Broncos centre James Roberts has been found guilty at the NRL judiciary and will miss Friday's semi-final versus the Cowboys in Townsville.

It's the secret weapon Brisbane believes will give them an edge in their quest for premiership success.

The Broncos backrower will be at Red Hill for another four years but there were fireworks on the training paddock as Brisbane ramped up their preparations for their finals clash with the Cowboys.

NRL finals tensions boil over at Red Hill.

The Broncos will fight a contrary conduct charge levelled at speedster James Roberts for kicking Titans forward Ryan Simpkins in a bid to be available for the all-Queensland blockbuster against the Cowboys on Friday night.