LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
In a heart-stopping moment during the clash between the Newcastle Knights and the South Sydney Rabbitohs, backrower Kai Pearce-Paul suffered a brutal injury that left everyone in shock.
The deep 15cm gash on his shin, caused by a teammate's stud, resembled a vicious "shark bite" according to coach Adam O'Brien.
Described as a graphic scene on the field, Pearce-Paul was swiftly taken to the hospital for emergency surgery to mend the extensive damage.
The incident left players and fans reeling from the severity of the injury, with teammate Ponga recounting how he was "split open" by the sharp blow.
In the rough and tough world of Rugby League, injuries like these serve as a reminder of the physical demands of the game.
But as they say, it's all part of the game and the Knights will undoubtedly rally around Pearce-Paul as he embarks on his road to recovery.