The Sydney Roosters have delivered a comprehensive injury update on five key players ahead of their Round 16 clash against the North Queensland Cowboys, set for Sunday afternoon.
Halfback Sam Walker has been ruled out for at least another month after fracturing his right thumb during training. The injury required surgery, which was successfully completed last Thursday.
The setback delays Walker’s much-anticipated return to the field as the Roosters continue to battle for finals contention.
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Meanwhile, Nat Butcher has also been dealt a blow, with the club confirming a recurrence of an MCL strain sustained during a recent training session. The second-rower is now expected to be sidelined for at least six more weeks.
In further setbacks, both Egan Butcher and Victor Radley have been ruled out of this weekend’s game due to concussion protocols.
Radley will also consult an independent specialist later in the week to further assess his recovery.
On a more positive note, Fetalaiga Pauga has resumed full training after managing a chronic lumbar issue. However, the Roosters have not yet confirmed a timeline for the outside back’s return to competitive play.
Currently sitting eighth on the NRL ladder with a 6-7 record, the Roosters will be hoping to manage these injury concerns carefully as they face a crucial stretch of the season.
