NRL Pre-Season Hit by Major Injury Setbacks for Roosters and Storm
As the 2026 NRL season looms, both the Sydney Roosters and Melbourne Storm are grappling with significant injury concerns to key players, forcing a mid-season scramble before the whistle even blows. The Roosters have been dealt a blow with the recent hand injury sustained by their new hooker, Reece Robson. This ailment is expected to sideline him for up to two months, necessitating a considerable reshuffle in the team’s forward pack and spine. Meanwhile, the Storm face a similarly daunting challenge, with star winger Xavier Coates set to miss a minimum of three months due to injury. These unexpected blows are more than just minor inconveniences; they present a real test of coaching nous and squad depth, with the potential to derail early season momentum if not managed effectively.
Roosters’ Hooking Dilemma: Depth the Key to Recovery
The Sydney Roosters’ preparations for the upcoming season have been significantly disrupted by the unfortunate hand injury to Reece Robson. The club, however, appears to be well-positioned to absorb this loss, thanks to its established depth in the hooker position.
- Connor Watson’s Versatility: A likely immediate solution involves Origin star Connor Watson. Instead of slotting into the assumed number 13 jersey, Watson is expected to provide crucial support to the team’s spine, which includes the hooker role. His familiarity with playing at nine offers a direct and experienced replacement.
- The Lock Role: With Watson potentially shifting to hooker, the lock position (number 13) needs filling. Veteran forward Victor Radley is a strong contender for this role. Alternatively, young talent Blake Steep could be given the opportunity to start in the lock position.
- Steep’s Impact: Even if Steep doesn’t secure a starting spot in the lock role, he remains a valuable asset. He could still contribute significantly from the bench as a utility forward, offering flexibility and energy.
- Ioelu’s Opportunity: Should Watson indeed shift to hooker, Beniah Ioelu is poised to occupy jersey 14. The new bench rules in the NRL offer greater flexibility for this jersey, meaning Ioelu, a specialist hooker, can still be a vital part of Robinson’s top 19 without needing to be a traditional utility player.
- A Promising Partnership: Watson and Ioelu have already demonstrated a promising understanding and synergy on the field, mirroring aspects of the injured Robson’s playing style. This existing combination could allow the Roosters to maintain a strong attacking structure from dummy-half.
- Strategic Flexibility: The coaching staff has the option to start either Watson or Ioelu at hooker (number 9) or as the utility player on the bench (number 14). This strategic flexibility allows them to inject flair into the game while ensuring the team’s structure remains intact, even without their primary hooker.
While the absence of Reece Robson is undoubtedly a setback, the Roosters’ strong squad depth suggests they possess the necessary resources to adapt and overcome this challenge.
Storm’s Aerial Threat: Replacing Coates is a Tough Ask
For the Melbourne Storm, the loss of Xavier Coates presents a more concerning scenario. Coates is not just a pivotal member of their backline; he is a genuine game-changer, particularly with his exceptional aerial ability and try-scoring prowess. Replacing such a unique talent is a significant challenge.
- The Zac Lomax Scenario: The most straightforward, albeit complicated, path for the Storm would be to sign Zac Lomax. He could initially slot in on the wing, potentially shifting to the other side of the field upon Coates’ recovery.
However, this plan is heavily reliant on the successful completion of Lomax’s signing, which is currently entangled in a complex legal dispute. The outcome of this legal battle will be a critical factor in whether this option is even feasible for the Storm. - Rookie Moses Leo’s Chance: If the Lomax signing fails to materialise, the responsibility is likely to fall on rookie Moses Leo. The 28-year-old made his NRL debut in Round 5 of the previous season. His experience includes a stint with the New Zealand Rugby Sevens program, which could offer a different skillset to the Storm’s wing stocks.
- Leo’s Limited NRL Exposure: Unfortunately, Leo’s NRL career has been hampered by a shoulder fracture sustained last year. This injury significantly limited his top-flight exposure to just two games. He also made five appearances for the North Sydney Bears in the NSW Cup, gaining valuable game time in the reserve grade.
- Bellamy’s Gamble: Storm coach Craig Bellamy is facing a significant gamble in relying on Leo to fill the void left by Coates. The upcoming performances will serve as a true test of Leo’s ability to handle the pressure and responsibilities of being a starting winger for a club like Melbourne. A key aspect will be his capacity to replicate Coates’ renowned aerial threat, a crucial element of the Storm’s attacking strategy.
The Storm’s ability to navigate Coates’ absence will hinge on the development of their less experienced players and the potential success of their recruitment targets.
