Knights Fullback Headache
The Newcastle Knights are facing a fullback crisis after star fullback Kalyn Ponga suffered a Lisfranc foot injury that will sideline him for three months. The Knights are now considering two options to replace Ponga: exciting rookie Thomas Armstrong and veteran Enari Tuala. Armstrong has impressed in the Pre-Season Challenge and NSW Cup this season, while Tuala is a more experienced campaigner who can also play on the wing.
Eels Star Set for Shock Position Switch
Parramatta Eels coach Brad Arthur is reportedly set to make a shock change to his team’s spine by moving captain Clint Gutherson from fullback to five-eighth. The move is designed to ease the load on Gutherson’s injured knees. Dylan Brown is expected to remain at halfback, while former Rooster Blake Ferguson will likely come into the side at fullback.
Rabbitohs Recall Cook
Damien Cook is set to be recalled to the South Sydney Rabbitohs starting side after he was axed last week. Cook was dropped to the bench for last week’s game against the Manly Sea Eagles, but is expected to return to the No. 9 jersey this week. Siliva Havili is likely to make way for Cook.
Roosters Welcome Back Trio
The Sydney Roosters are set to welcome back three key players for Round 8. Luke Keary will return to the halves after missing the last two games due to concussion, while Jared Waerea-Hargreaves and Victor Radley are also set to return from injury. Keary will replace Lachlan Lam, while Waerea-Hargreaves and Radley will come into the pack.
Broncos Boosted by Player Returns
The Brisbane Broncos will also be boosted by the return of several key players this week. Billy Walters will replace Adam Reynolds at halfback, while Payne Haas and Jordan Riki will return to the forward pack. Walters has been in impressive form for the Broncos in the Queensland Cup, while Haas and Riki are both experienced Origin players.
Other notable team news items include:
* The Cowboys are set to welcome back back rower Jeremiah Nanai, while winger Kyle Feldt is still a couple of weeks away from returning from a hamstring injury.
* The Panthers are set to welcome back halfback Nathan Cleary from a hamstring injury, while centre Tyrone May is also expected to play despite being involved in a controversy surrounding a video he posted of him as a passenger in a speeding car.
* The Raiders are set to give versatile utility Matt Frawley a chance in the halves, with Jack Wighton likely out for most of the season due to a biceps injury. Frawley will partner Jamal Fogarty in the halves.
* The Sharks are set to welcome back winger Ronaldo Mulitalo and veteran prop Andrew Fifita, while Siosifa Talakai could be included in the backline.
