Real extent of Panthers Star, others sidelined due to Injuries

The Panthers are facing a setback as their star player, Nathan Cleary, is out of action due to a hamstring injury sustained in the recent grand final rematch. This adds to the growing list of top-tier players who will be absent in Round 4.

Coach Ivan Cleary provided some reassurance by stating that Cleary’s injury isn’t severe, indicating a potential return by Round 7, particularly with a bye week scheduled for Round 6.

“It’s not too serious, which is a relief,” Cleary remarked on Tuesday, noting that Cleary had experienced similar sensations last year before the injury worsened.

“While he might be able to return next week, considering the upcoming bye, we’ll have to assess how he progresses this week,” Cleary added.

In addition to Cleary, the Panthers have suffered another blow with Scott Sorensen sidelined due to an MCL injury, keeping him out of action for at least a couple of weeks.

The news of Cleary’s injury follows the announcement from the Eels that Mitch Moses will be sidelined for up to eight weeks due to a foot fracture sustained during the match against the Sea Eagles.

Meanwhile, the Sharks have been hit hard with Dale Finucane, Toby Rudolf, and Royce Hunt all nursing injuries from Round 3, joining Braden Hamlin-Uele on the sidelines. Hunt is expected to be out for a month due to a calf strain, Rudolf for 3-6 weeks with an ankle injury, and Finucane for a fortnight to a month due to a fractured eye socket.

The Broncos, already missing Reece Walsh due to a facial fracture, face further setbacks as back-rower Brendan Piakura sprained his ankle during training, ruling him out for a month.

The Roosters will be without Lindsay Collins in their upcoming match due to a hamstring injury, although there’s optimism about his quick recovery. Sandon Smith, dealing with an elbow issue, faces 4-6 weeks out, while Billy Smith is nursing an ankle injury.

Albert Hopoate of the Raiders is expected to miss just one week due to burns suffered in a cooking accident, but Seb Kris’s return from a concussion provides some relief for the team.

Despite losing captain Tino Fa’asuamaleaui to a season-ending ACL injury, the Titans have positive news with Jayden Campbell set to make his NRL debut and David Fifita potentially joining him after being named as the 18th man.

Warriors fullback Taine Tuaupiki will miss the clash against the Knights, but the team welcomes back Wayde Egan, Dylan Walker, and Marata Niukore from respective injuries.

The Storm anticipates the return of Cameron Munster, Joe Chan, Reimis Smith, Christian Welch, and Nelson Asofa-Solomona following their Round 4 bye, with Sua Fa’alogo likely available in Round 6 due to an ankle injury.

“Munster’s return to training this week is fantastic news,” remarked Storm General Manager Frank Ponissi. “If he continues to train well for the rest of this week and early next week, we expect him to be back for the Broncos game, which will significantly boost the team.”