Key Players Face Injuries Ahead of State of Origin
Mark Nawaqanitawase’s hopes of playing in the State of Origin series have taken a major hit, with the NSW player set to undergo syndesmosis surgery. This injury is expected to keep him out of most of the series, effectively ending his chances of featuring in the upcoming games.
Nawaqanitawase was seen limping off the field during the Roosters’ 38-24 victory over Brisbane on Saturday night. The 25-year-old is anticipated to miss at least six weeks, which would rule him out of the first two games and make it extremely unlikely for him to be considered for Origin III.
The injury occurred when Nawaqanitawase’s right foot became trapped under teammate Robert Toia’s body. With plans to return to rugby union at the end of the season, this injury may have cost him his only opportunity to play in the Origin arena unless he decides to return to the NRL.
Impact on NSW Squad
In addition to Nawaqanitawase’s injury, NSW second-rower Angus Crichton also suffered a knee injury during the match. He underwent scans after the game, but the Tri-colours were confident that his injury was not serious. Crichton was seen heading up the tunnel in the second half with suspected medial ligament damage.
This injury comes as a blow to NSW, who are already missing Liam Martin and Payne Haas for their pack in Origin I on May 27 at Accor Stadium. While there is hope for Crichton’s recovery, the loss of Nawaqanitawase adds to the challenges faced by the team.
Blues coach Laurie Daley had indicated that Nawaqanitawase was competing with Josh Addo-Carr and Campbell Graham for a wing spot, with Brian To’o on the other side. Nawaqanitawase had been part of pre-season NSW camps and improved his chances with six tries in four games before the injury.
“I’ve always wanted to do [Origin],” Nawaqanitawase said last week. “I watched Origin all the time growing up. I think it’s been a part of the lives of most kids who play rugby league growing up.”
Additional Concerns for NSW
Adding to NSW’s concerns is the situation involving Brisbane centre Kotoni Staggs, who is facing a two-game ban after dropping his elbow on Hugo Savala’s head late in the match. Staggs had been a strong contender to play right centre for the Blues in Origin I, especially with questions over Stephen Crichton’s form ahead of the series.
Staggs received a grade-two charge, meaning he will not be able to play again before the Blues finalize their team for Origin I unless he disputes the grading at the judiciary.
Opportunities for Other Players
Nawaqanitawase’s injury is likely to open the door for Cody Ramsey to remain in the Roosters’ backline. Ramsey made an inspirational return on Saturday night, playing his first NRL game in 1337 days after battling ulcerative colitis. Tommy Talau is another option who could come onto the Roosters’ wing.
Meanwhile, Roosters prop Lindsay Collins will miss Friday’s clash with Gold Coast due to a concussion but is expected to return before Queensland selects their team for the Origin opener. This means that the Roosters will need to rely on other players to fill key roles in the coming matches.
