LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
In a devastating blow for the North Queensland Cowboys, young gun Heilum Luki is set to go under the knife after suffering a syndesmosis injury during their triumph over the Newcastle Knights.
The 22-year-old will be sidelined for 6-8 weeks, leaving coach Todd Payten with a major gap to fill in the squad.
Following scans on Sunday morning, the severity of Luki's injury was revealed, prompting the decision for surgery.
Cowboys General Manager of Football Michael Luck confirmed that the forward will head to Brisbane on Monday to undergo the procedure.
Luki was forced to leave the field in the first half against the Newcastle Knights and was noticeably absent for the remainder of the match, sported in a moon boot on his left leg.
The loss of his presence on the field will be felt by the team, as they face the challenge of finding a suitable replacement in the coming weeks.