Uncertainty looms over Tolutau Koula's chances of participating in Origin II, following his premature exit from the series opener due to a head injury at Accor Stadium.
The dynamic centre, who has transitioned to winger, left the field in the 57th minute after suffering a mistimed shoulder charge, resulting in a mandatory 11-day stand-down period. Unfortunately, this officially sidelines him for Manly's upcoming matches against Cronulla Sharks on Friday and the Rabbitohs next Thursday.
Maroons fullback Kalyn Ponga faced a tough moment as he received a Grade 2 Shoulder Charge penalty after a failed tackle on Koula. The collision saw Ponga's shoulder strike Koula's head, leaving the winger motionless on the field, blood visible from a significant head wound.
As selection for the NSW squad for Origin II approaches, Koula's fitness will pose a challenge for the Blues' coaching staff.
In his inaugural Origin game, Koula impressed with 15 carries for 128 metres gained, including 41 post-contact metres, a line-break, and three tackle breaks.
In a separate update, coach Laurie Daley reassured fans regarding Haumole Olakau'atu, clarifying that his late-game issue was merely cramps.
"I spoke to him after the game, and he said, 'It [his leg] just cramped,'" Daley explained.
He continued, adding, "He said that 'he picked up the ball and that his whole body cramped,' so tough conditions obviously, and he was good for us when he was out there."
Olakau'atu exited the field in the 67th minute, concluding the game with 10 runs for 97 metres, three tackle breaks, and 25 tackles at an impressive 92.59% efficiency.