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A heavy round of injuries has sidelined key players across the Broncos, Warriors and Sharks, with Origin implications looming.
The Brisbane Broncos are facing a mounting injury toll after their 26-12 win over the Gold Coast Titans, with Ben Hunt expected to miss up to eight weeks due to a medial collateral ligament injury.
The setback leaves coach Michael Maguire without a recognised halfback ahead of their clash with the Cowboys, compounding the absence of winger Grant Anderson, who is also sidelined with a knee issue.
Reece Walsh has undergone surgery on a fractured cheekbone, the third time he has suffered the injury, and is set to be out for six to eight weeks.
His recovery timeline places him in doubt for State of Origin Game 1, with Queensland coach Billy Slater facing a decision on whether the fullback can prove his fitness in time. Adam Reynolds is also expected to miss one to two weeks, further testing the Broncos' depth in key positions.
While Walsh may struggle to return in time for the opening Origin match, he is likely to be available later in the series if his recovery progresses as expected.
The Warriors are also dealing with fresh injury concerns following their 36-22 loss to the Sharks. Luke Metcalf, who had only just returned from an ACL injury, is set for another spell on the sidelines after limping from the field in his second game back.
Coach Andrew Webster indicated the issue is not believed to be long-term, although the playmaker will miss upcoming matches.
Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad was involved in a concerning incident after suffering a neck injury in a tackle. He was able to leave the field under his own power after receiving medical attention.
The Sharks were not immune, with centre Jesse Ramien leaving the field with a suspected MCL injury. Early indications suggest he could be sidelined for at least a month, according to NRL Physio Brien Seeney.
Elsewhere, the Knights climbed to second on the ladder with a 32-12 win over the Raiders, although the result was tempered by a groin injury to centre Bradman Best, who did not return for the second half.
