Brisbane Broncos coach Kevin Walters has ruled out bringing new skipper Adam Reynolds back into the team on the eve of their round one blockbuster against South Sydney after a directive from club doctors.

Reynolds has been struck by Covid but could have played if needed.

“We are taking the safety first option,” Walters said.

“I know the NRL guidelines are there but I want to take all the speculation out of it and let Adam get better.

“It’s a medical decision. We back our club’s medical advice 100 % and that advice is that asking Adam to play is too much of a risk to his health so soon after being diagnosed with Covid. At the end of the day, this is just one game, a big game, yes but just one game in a Broncos career that will see Adam play many great games for our club.”

The Broncos play Souths on Friday night with Albert Kelly to partner Billy Walters in the halves.