Campbell Graham’s Return and the Challenges of Injury
South Sydney winger Campbell Graham faced a moment of panic when he was tackled by Angus Crichton during a match against the Sydney Roosters. The impact caused immediate pain in his left shoulder, leading to fears of another injury setback. However, it turned out that the damage was not serious, and Graham missed only one game before returning for the Good Friday clash against Canterbury.
Graham’s return is significant for Souths, as he has been a crucial player for the team. Coach Wayne Bennett highlighted the positive impact of having Graham on the field, stating, “We’re all in a better place when we know he’s playing compared to when he’s not playing.” His ability to take tough carries early in the sets has made him an essential part of the side.
Despite his recent return, Graham has had a challenging few years due to injuries. He missed 11 games last year because of a calf injury and a bulging disc in his back. In 2024, he did not play at all after undergoing sternum surgery. Now, he is focused on staying injury-free and maintaining his fitness through methods like Pilates, saunas, and ice baths.
Graham expressed relief after being cleared of serious injury. He mentioned that the tackle felt “clunky” and that he had previously undergone surgery on the same shoulder in 2023. He also noted that the club gave him time to recover ahead of the bye period.
His performances this season have been impressive, with two tries against the Dolphins in round one and another against the Roosters. He has also received praise from teammates like Jack Wighton, who acknowledged how quickly Graham adjusted after switching from the left to the right side of the field.
With Zac Lomax’s departure to rugby, Graham is being considered as a potential option for the NSW Origin side, given his size and ability under the high ball. Souths have also invited Nathan Merritt to ring the club’s Legacy Bell before kick-off, as he faces a terminal illness and hopes to see South Sydney win the premiership.
Bulldogs’ Shifting Lineup and Player Adjustments
Bronson Xerri is set for an NRL return after being included in Canterbury’s 20-man squad just weeks after being axed. Coach Cameron Ciraldo has been impressed by Xerri’s performances in the NSW Cup and his training habits since his dismissal. While Enari Tuala continues to hold the starting position, Xerri is listed on the bench for the Good Friday clash against South Sydney.
Lachlan Galvin and Matt Burton have been named to start in the halves, despite Ciraldo moving Stephen Crichton to five-eighth during the loss to Newcastle. Graham has returned from a shoulder issue, but Brandon Smith is still recovering from a calf problem.
In other team news, the Sea Eagles have kept their original lineup following Anthony Seibold’s exit, meaning there is no room for emerging talent Joey Walsh. Jason Saab will miss the Redcliffe match, replaced by Clayton Faulalo, while Ethan Bullemor is on the bench despite an Achilles injury.
Canterbury’s Halves Shake-Up and Team Dynamics
Canterbury players were caught off-guard by coach Cameron Ciraldo’s decision to move Stephen Crichton to five-eighth during the loss to Newcastle. The change left some players unaware, including winger Marcelo Montoya, who said he didn’t realize the switch had happened. Max King and Kurt Mann admitted they were surprised but believed the team’s versatility would help them adapt.
Mann emphasized that the team trained in multiple positions during the pre-season, allowing them to handle such changes. He noted that the shift could be beneficial in the long run, especially with the increased pace of the ruck this season.
Despite the challenges, Canterbury’s attack has struggled, scoring no more than 16 points in three games. With the Good Friday clash against South Sydney approaching, scrutiny remains on the scrumbase and overall tactics.
Eels Suffer More Injuries; Flanagan Discharged
Parramatta’s Isaiah Iongi has joined key forward J’maine Hopgood on the casualty list after requiring surgery for an ankle injury. Iongi will undergo an operation this week and is expected to be out for at least eight weeks. His injury came after a hip drop tackle by Penrith hooker Mitch Kenny, who accepted a one-match ban for dangerous contact.
Iongi joins Hopgood, who suffered a season-ending ACL tear, and Matt Doorey, who will need knee reconstruction. Meanwhile, St George Illawarra’s Kyle Flanagan has been discharged from hospital after a heavy head clash. Although he was unconscious for up to five minutes, scans showed no structural damage, and he will continue to be monitored under concussion protocols.
Dragons Face a Challenging Start
The Dragons sit at the bottom of the ladder after a winless first month of the season. They face the Cowboys next at Jubilee Stadium, hoping to turn their fortunes around. Flanagan’s absence will be felt, but the team is working to rebuild its attacking strategies.
