After a tough loss for the South Sydney Rabbitohs in their recent match against the Brisbane Broncos, which ended in a 38-24 defeat, the team is now dealing with a series of injuries that could impact the upcoming State of Origin series. Mark Nawaqanitawase, a key player for the Roosters and a potential candidate for the New South Wales (NSW) wing position, is set to undergo ankle surgery following an injury sustained during the game.
The incident occurred when Nawaqanitawase was tackled by teammate Rob Toia, who is also a Queensland Origin representative. This unfortunate event has left the NSW coaching staff, led by Laurie Daley, in a difficult position as they prepare for the first State of Origin clash in two weeks.
In addition to Nawaqanitawase’s injury, Angus Crichton, a long-time Blues stalwart, suffered a knee injury and did not finish the game. On Sunday, another Blues hopeful, Adam Doueihi, injured his shoulder and will require scans to determine the extent of the damage.
Daley highlighted the significant number of NRL games lost due to injuries, including players such as Payne Haas, Jacob Kiraz, Max King, Tom Trbojevic, and others. These absences have created a challenge for the Blues as they look to fill key positions.
Nawaqanitawase, who is set to transition to rugby, was in strong contention for an Origin spot after representing Australia during last year’s Ashes tour. However, Roosters coach Trent Robinson confirmed the severity of the injury, stating that Nawaqanitawase is likely to require surgery.
Daley expressed disappointment over Nawaqanitawase’s injury, noting the player’s contributions on the field. “Mark was certainly in the mix. I was loving the way he was bringing the ball out of yardage,” Daley said. “He’s a great finisher, very good in the air and he’s also got a bit of flair about him. I also thought he was adapting really well defensively and improving every week in that area. It’s a huge shame.”
With Nawaqanitawase sidelined, the focus shifts to who will take the other wing spot for the Blues. Brian To’o is already set to play, but several other players are in the running:
- Campbell Graham – Known for his resilience and ability to bounce back from injuries, Graham has been praised by Daley for his strong carrying and defensive improvements.
- Josh Addo-Carr – An experienced player from Parramatta, Addo-Carr brings a wealth of experience to the table.
- Tolu Koula – His speed makes him a valuable asset on the wing.
- Sunia Turuva – With big-game experience from his time at Penrith, Turuva is another contender.
- Tom Jenkins – As the competition’s leading try-scorer, Jenkins is a strong candidate.
- Casey McLean – A Penrith centre who has played on the wing for New Zealand, McLean adds versatility to the list.
- Alex Johnston – A potential surprise pick, given his form and partnership with Latrell Mitchell at the Rabbitohs.
Angus Crichton, who has been a mainstay for the Blues in the forwards, is also facing uncertainty due to a possible medial collateral ligament injury. While scans are being conducted, his availability for the first Origin game remains uncertain.
Other factors include Api Koroisau’s suspension and Hudson Young’s return from a two-match ban. However, Young’s limited game time before the Origin series may affect his selection.
As the Blues prepare for the upcoming matches, the focus will be on finding the right combination of players to fill the gaps caused by these injuries. The competition for the remaining spots is expected to be fierce, with several talented players vying for a chance to represent NSW in the State of Origin series.
