The South Sydney Rabbitohs have disclosed that NRL's all-time leading try-scorer, Alex Johnston, is sidelined due to a calf injury that will keep him out for several weeks.
In his last game against the Parramatta Eels, Johnston played the entire 80 minutes, helping secure a 32 to 12 victory while covering 125 meters from 13 carries.
Although there were no visible signs of trouble during the match, the club has confirmed that he sustained a calf injury, which, while minor, will require a recovery period of about two to three weeks.
With Edward Kosi ready to take the field on the opposite wing, Dayne Jennings is set to start against the weakened Penrith Panthers this weekend. Additionally, Jack Wighton makes his return to the backline after recovering from a broken arm, shifting Tallis Duncan back to the second-row position.
Beyond the Panthers game, Johnston is also expected to miss the Round 19 clash with the Newcastle Knights and possibly the Round 20 road game against the Canberra Raiders.
However, he is likely to return for the Round 21 home match against the Melbourne Storm.
The Rabbitohs are contending with additional injuries in their squad, with Campbell Graham and Latrell Mitchell expected back in Rounds 19 and 21, respectively, while Sean Keppie is anticipated to return in Round 23.
Unfortunately, Isaiah Tass and Adam Elliott will not participate for the rest of the season. Currently sitting in seventh place, the Rabbitohs aim to make a strong push for the finals, needing at least five wins in their final ten games.