St George Illawarra Dragons second-rower Jaydn Su'A has sustained a suspected torn calf during training and will miss the match against the New Zealand Warriors this Saturday evening in Kogarah.
Su'A was expected to make his return from suspension for that game and was unexpectedly named in the centre position when interim coach Dean Young announced the team on Tuesday, as the Dragons aim to end a ten-match losing streak to start the season.
The experienced forward was shifted to the centres to accommodate Dylan Egan's recent return, while also allowing younger forwards like Ryan Couchman and Hamish Stewart to get valuable minutes, especially in light of Moses Suli's back injury.
Hayden Buchanan has been selected to take Su'A's place in the lineup.
"It happened about 15 minutes ago," the coach commented to the media.
"We'll get some scans and go from there."
"It's an opportunity for Hayden. He's been training hard and doing a lot of good things under Willie Talau in [NSW] Cup, and now he gets his opportunity. That's what I've been doing since I've taken over, is giving blokes opportunities, and if they take it, they stay there."
Buchanan, who was initially listed in jersey 20 and outside the active 19 for the clash against the Warriors, will seamlessly replace Su'A.
The young talent, part of a group of players finding their rhythm at the Red V, has showcased his skills in previous first-grade matches, with the Dragons also having Tyrell Sloan ready as cover for the backline in this contest.