LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
The Newcastle Knights are facing uncertainty as they approach their season opener against the North Queensland Cowboys in Las Vegas. The team is currently dealing with three injury concerns that could impact their roster.
Young forwards Jermaine McEwen and Cody Hopwood were both withdrawn from the weekend's trial match against St George Illawarra Dragons. Additionally, Dane Gagai did not participate in this opening trial.
Coach Justin Holbrook stated that McEwen and Hopwood are dealing with minor injuries and are expected to return for the Knights' next pre-season match against the Canterbury Bulldogs, scheduled for Saturday at 6pm (AEDT).
While Gagai's injury was anticipated to keep him out of the trial, there is now worry that he might also miss the upcoming match. He had been expected to be part of the All Stars squad, but he was notably absent when teams were recently announced.
"Cody Hopwood and Jermaine McEwen unfortunately picked up some injuries late in the week," Holbrook said per NRL.com.
"They're two that were really impressive in pre-season but didn't get the run today. Cody hurt his calf and Jermaine hurt his ankle. They're only minor; they both should be right this week. With Gags, it's just a slight hammy he just did at training."
Although Hopwood, a young and talented prop, was unlikely to start in the opening round, McEwen was considered a strong candidate for the second-row position, especially after the departure of Kai Pearce-Paul to the Wests Tigers for the 2026 season.