Kieran Foran's much-anticipated Parramatta debut may be put on hold, with the marquee signing struggling to overcome hamstring problems in time for the NRL season opener against Brisbane.

The focus was expected to be on Foran when the Eels open the season against the Broncos on Thursday night. However, the Kiwi international is experiencing a recurrence of the hamstring problems that have plagued his career and is no certainty for the Pirtek Stadium blockbuster. Foran will be given until just before kick-off to prove his fitness but his teammates are resigned to being without him.

Hamstring problems: Kieran Foran. Credit:Parramatta Eels

The premiership-winning half has been hailed as one of the biggest signings in Parramatta's history and is part of a new-look team that also includes new recruits Michael Jennings, Beau Scott, Michael Gordon and Clint Gutherson. The clash with the grand finalists was expected to provide an indication of how well coach Brad Arthur's new-look side has gelled in the off season.