LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
The Canterbury Bulldogs are set to welcome Viliame Kikau and Toby Sexton back for their upcoming semi-final clash with the Penrith Panthers.
Initially, the Bulldogs faced a potential crisis with five injured players. In addition to Sexton (sternum) and Kikau (eye socket), Marcelo Montoya (ankle), Jethro Rinakama (ankle), and Enari Tuala (leg) were also in uncertain condition. Tuala's situation has unfortunately worsened, as he is now confirmed to be sidelined due to a broken leg, which was initially misdiagnosed as a calf injury.
Montoya is working to recover from a syndesmosis injury sustained during Round 27 against the Cronulla Sharks. Meanwhile, Rinakama is still awaiting scan results to determine his status.
According to a report from News Corp, Montoya is gradually making progress but remains uncertain for the game. He mentioned, "I wouldn't even be attempting a comeback if it was a regular season game," but is motivated to push through to make himself available for the semi-final against Penrith.
Having the game scheduled for Sunday allows the injured players a bit more time for recovery, as there is a nine-day gap between their previous loss in Melbourne to the Storm and the match against the four-time defending champions.