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 Roosters suffered multiple injuries during the match, with NSW second-rower Angus Crichton also sustaining a knee injury. Crichton went straight up the tunnel after the game with suspected medial ligament damage, prompting scans to determine the severity of the injury. While the Tri-colours remain optimistic about Crichton’s recovery, any further setbacks could be a blow to the NSW team.
NSW is already facing challenges in their pack, as Liam Martin and Payne Haas are set to miss Origin I on May 27 at Accor Stadium. The loss of these key players adds to the pressure on the remaining squad.
For Nawaqanitawase, this injury comes at a critical time. With plans to return to rugby union at the end of the season, this was his only chance to play in the Origin arena unless he decides to return to the NRL. The Blues coach Laurie Daley had previously indicated that Nawaqanitawase was competing with Josh Addo-Carr and Campbell Graham for a wing spot, while Brian To’o was on the other side.
Nawaqanitawase had been part of pre-season NSW camps and had improved his chances with six tries in four games before the recent clash. He had expressed his desire to play in Origin, stating, “It’s always been something that I’ve wanted to do. 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 potential suspension of Brisbane centre Kotoni Staggs. Staggs is facing a two-game ban after dropping his elbow on Hugo Savala’s head late in the match. He had been a strong contender for the right centre position in Origin I, especially with questions surrounding Stephen Crichton’s form ahead of the series.
Staggs received a grade-two charge, which means he will not play again before the Blues select their team for Origin I unless he disputes the grading at the judiciary. This development could force the Blues to look elsewhere for their right centre option.
Meanwhile, Nawaqanitawase’s injury is likely to benefit Cody Ramsey, who is set to stay in the Roosters’ backline. Ramsey made an inspirational return on Saturday night, playing his first NRL game in 1337 days after his public battle with ulcerative colitis. Tommy Talau is another option who could come onto the Roosters’ wing.
Roosters prop Lindsay Collins will also miss Friday’s clash with Gold Coast due to a concussion but is expected to return before Queensland picks their side for the Origin opener.
