Bad boy footy star Josh McGuire has a win in courtroom after being charged with assaulting and strangling a toddler

Former NRL enforcer Josh McGuire has secured a small but significant win in court as his serious criminal case continues to unfold in Brisbane.

The ex-Queensland State of Origin forward is facing one count each of strangulation and common assault, with both offences alleged to have been committed against a child.

During the latest mention in Brisbane Magistrates Court, prosecutors agreed to obtain a competency report for the child at the centre of the case,  a move previously requested by McGuire’s legal team.

His lawyer Kristy Bell told the court the hearing was set down to determine if the Crown would proceed with that step.

‘The Crown has now agreed to obtain that report,’ she said.

‘Then there’ll be consideration given to whether the matter can progress to committal in the interim or whether parties need that report first.’

The development is viewed as a procedural win for the former Broncos and Cowboys forward, whose defence has been pushing for further clarity around the evidence.

McGuire, 36, remains on bail and was not required to appear in court for the brief mention.

The court was also told the prosecution has now handed over its brief of evidence to the defence, marking another key step forward in the case.

Magistrate Tina Previtera adjourned the matter until April 20, when it is expected to return for further progress.

McGuire was first arrested in December following a child protection investigation, with police alleging the offences involved a young victim.

The former Australian international played 269 NRL games across stints with the Brisbane Broncos, North Queensland Cowboys and St George Illawarra Dragons, before finishing his career in England with Warrington.

He also represented Queensland 14 times and was part of Australia’s 2017 Rugby League World Cup-winning squad.

The case remains before the courts.