LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
Penrith Panther's Liam Martin, known for his gritty performances on the field, has unfortunately been ruled out of the upcoming Pacific Championship due to injury.
This latest blow adds to the growing list of star players who will be missing from the tournament, opening the door for potential new faces to shine on the international stage for Australia.
Veteran Clive Churchill medallist Liam Martin, a key player in Penrith's recent premiership triumph, was forced to withdraw from the Kangaroos squad due to his ongoing shoulder and rib issues.
Despite battling through the pain to help secure the grand final victory, Martin will now have to watch from the sidelines alongside his injured teammate Nathan Cleary.
In Martin's absence, promising Canberra Raiders player Hudson Young is now in line to make his international debut for Australia against Tonga in Brisbane next month.
With only three State of Origin appearances under his belt, Young's selection showcases coach Mal Meninga's faith in the next generation of talent to carry the Kangaroos forward.
The Pacific Championships will be missing a number of top-tier players from various teams, with Melbourne Storm's Cameron Munster also unavailable for Australia.
Meninga, embracing what he calls the "evolution" of the Kangaroos, has included a total of nine potential debutants in the squad, highlighting the changing landscape of Australian Rugby League.
Despite the setbacks, the spirit of competition and opportunity for emerging stars to make their mark on the international stage remains strong as the Pacific Championship draws near.
The absence of seasoned veterans only serves to pave the way for new heroes to rise and etch their names into Rugby League history.