LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
Newcastle Knights face a significant setback as breakout star Fletcher Sharpe is likely to miss the rest of the NRL season due to serious injuries sustained during a recent match.
After suffering a ruptured spleen and lacerated kidney, Sharpe has been hospitalized in Perth, where his family has joined him for support.
The 21-year-old, who has made a name for himself by transitioning from the wing to five-eighth, has been a bright spot in an otherwise challenging season for the Knights, scoring 11 tries in 14 games.
The incident occurred during a crucial win against the Dolphins when Sharpe left the field for a head injury assessment after a heavy fall.
However, the real damage came from an awkward landing that affected his abdomen.
NRL Physio Brien Seeney noted that the situation was serious enough to be classified as a "medical emergency," leading to Sharpe undergoing surgery.
Currently, he remains in recovery in a Perth hospital, with his condition still uncertain.
Seeney has indicated that it may mark the end of Sharpe's season, emphasizing the importance of his recovery following such a traumatic event.
The injury shocked fans as it seemingly happened during a routine tackle.
In the wake of Sharpe's potential absence, the Knights will look to fill his position in the halves with either Jackson Hastings or Tyson Gamble.
Coach Adam O'Brien has primarily favored Gamble throughout the season, while Hastings has only seen limited action, making just one appearance in 2025 against the Roosters amid a roster depleted by injuries.