Reece Walsh, a key player for the Brisbane Broncos, is facing a potential season-ending injury after suffering a fractured hand during their victory over the Cowboys on Saturday night. The Broncos’ head of performance, Dave Ballard, confirmed that Walsh has a metacarpal fracture and that the team will consult a specialist to determine the appropriate course of action. Walsh is expected to be sidelined for the next 3-4 weeks, though it remains uncertain whether he will need surgery. This injury comes as a significant setback for the Broncos, who are currently positioned twelfth on the ladder and fighting to secure a place in the finals.
The Broncos have a bye this weekend, followed by matches against the Eels, the Dolphins, and the top-of-the-table Melbourne Storm in Brisbane. Walsh might be able to return for the clash with the Storm, but the team’s chances of making the finals could be jeopardized if they don’t perform well in the upcoming games.
In related selection news, North Queensland’s Chad Townsend has been dropped from the halves position following the Cowboys’ heavy defeat to Brisbane. Townsend struggled during the 42-18 loss, missing five tackles and having an off-night with his kicking. Jake Clifford will step in as halfback for the Cowboys’ critical game against Canberra on Saturday, with Townsend relegated to the extended bench. This move comes as the Cowboys aim to maintain their spot in the top eight and secure a finals berth, despite a challenging end to the season with upcoming matches against ladder-leaders Melbourne and a rejuvenated Canterbury.
The Cowboys will also be without Jeremiah Nanai, who is out due to concussion, with Kulikefu Finefeuiaki taking his place in the back row and Tom Mikaele joining the bench. Canberra is also adjusting their lineup, with Ethan Strange moving to centre to replace Jordan Rapana, who is sidelined with a concussion, and Adam Cook stepping in at five-eighth.
In other team updates, Penrith has included Dylan Edwards (knee) and James Fisher-Harris (groin) on an extended bench for their crucial top-of-the-table clash with Melbourne on Thursday. Both players have a good chance of returning, although the Panthers will be without their regular second-rowers Liam Martin (suspended) and Scott Sorensen (hamstring).
For the Warriors, Shaun Johnson returns from a quad injury to start his final three weeks in the NRL, with the Warriors’ match against Manly on Friday marking the beginning of his farewell tour.
In addition, Sydney Roosters winger Dom Young has avoided a prolonged absence due to a hamstring injury and will play against Parramatta on Friday. Nat Butcher, dealing with rib issues, is also set to play.
Canterbury’s Jaeman Salmon returns from a facial fracture, named on the bench for their game against the Dolphins in Bundaberg on Saturday. Braydon Trindall (hamstring) and Ronaldo Mulitalo (knee) are also in contention for a return for Cronulla’s match against Newcastle on Sunday, with both players listed among the reserves. Meanwhile, Jack Bird is set to make his return for St George Illawarra after over a month away, having been named on the bench for their game against Gold Coast on Sunday.
