Matt Lodge return a big plus for Broncos out of coronavirus hiatus

Matt Lodge could be one of the biggest beneficiaries of the NRL's coronavirus hiatus with the Brisbane prop set to return from a knee injury when the game comes back.

Lodge was initially thought to be ruled out for the entire season when he ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament in February.

But he managed to avoid surgery and now could be back training as soon as the start of next month.

It would mean the 24-year-old could end up missing just two games, given the NRL only got through the opening fortnight before being shutdown.

"He's progressing really well," coach Anthony Seibold told NRL.com.

"If he gets the all-clear from the specialist in two weeks we'd expect him to be doing some training when we get back on the training paddock in May.

"All going well, as long as there's nothing unforeseen we'd probably expect Lodgey to be there or thereabouts once we start playing again if May 28 is the day."

If Lodge does return it would prove a massive boost for the Broncos pack.

Fellow middle Joe Ofahengaue is also set to return from a two-game ban in the Broncos' first game back when the league returns.

Alex Glenn, who missed the first two rounds, is also expected to return from a hamstring injury.

But they will still be without Tevita Pangai Jnr, who remains suspended until the end of round six after a dangerous contact charge in the opening round.