The Wests Tigers are optimistic about a surprising boost to their lineup ahead of a crucial match against the Canterbury Bulldogs this Saturday night.
Api Koroisau, the team's co-captain, was initially expected to be sidelined for a month due to a pectoral strain sustained during the Tigers' Round 18 loss to the St George Illawarra Dragons.
Originally, a return in early August was viewed as the most hopeful scenario.
Remarkably, just two weeks post-injury, it appears the veteran hooker could be making an unexpected comeback, a development that would significantly uplift Benji Marshall's squad.
With the Tigers' playoff dreams hanging by a thread as they prepare to face the Bulldogs, Koroisau's potential return becomes increasingly critical.
When the teams were announced on Tuesday, Koroisau was listed among the reserves, with Jared Haywood set to start at hooker and Josese Lanyon designated for the interchange as backup.
Though eyebrows were raised regarding his inclusion in the extended squad, Koroisau's participation in training has sparked optimism about his availability.
He was observed practicing with the NRL team on Tuesday and again participated in Thursday's primary training session, indicating his recovery is ahead of schedule.
Additionally, in another encouraging sign, Lanyon trained with the club's NSW Cup team on Thursday, hinting that Koroisau may indeed be ready to play.
It is believed that the 33-year-old must complete Friday's captain's run successfully to receive clearance to face Canterbury.