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Brisbane’s failed bid to clear Cory Paix adds to a growing injury toll ahead of a tough clash with the Tigers.
Brisbane have failed in their bid to have Cory Paix cleared for Saturday night's clash with the Wests Tigers, after an independent specialist upheld his category one head knock ruling.
Paix had been hoping for a downgrade that would allow him to bypass the mandatory 11-day stand-down period. The hooker passed his in-game HIA and was later cleared by club doctors, but the independent review confirmed he would remain sidelined under NRL concussion protocols.
Coach Michael Maguire said earlier the club would follow medical advice despite questioning the initial ruling, noting Paix had felt ready to return during the match.
The decision compounds Brisbane's mounting availability issues, with up to nine players unavailable through injury or suspension. Cameron Bukowski has been added to the extended squad, while Josh Rogers is expected to start at hooker.
There is some relief around captain Adam Reynolds, who has been named despite a groin strain and will need to pass a final fitness test to take his place.
Meanwhile, South Sydney have been hit with fresh injury concerns ahead of their meeting with St George Illawarra. Forward David Fifita is expected to miss up to six weeks with a hamstring injury sustained in last week's loss to Canberra.
The setback adds to the absence of fullback Jye Gray, who is facing around four weeks on the sidelines after scans confirmed a Grade 3 AC joint sprain.
With both sides dealing with significant disruptions, squad depth will be tested across a pivotal round, particularly for Brisbane as they attempt to cover a depleted roster against an in-form Tigers outfit.