LeagueNews.co | Nick Loken

NRL Casualty Ward: How your club is shaping heading into 2026

As the pre-season training intensifies, clubs are gearing up for the Witzer Pre-Season Challenge, starting on February 7. This report reviews the injury status of all 17 teams as they prepare for the new season.

Key questions arise regarding player recoveries from off-season surgeries and potential delays for others as the 2026 season approaches.

Nanai sustained a shoulder injury while representing Samoa against Tonga XIII at Suncorp Stadium. Scans confirmed that the 22-year-old requires a shoulder reconstruction.

Coach Todd Payten mentioned in late December that Nanai is expected to be sidelined for the first 4-6 weeks of the upcoming season.

Neame suffered his injury back in August and underwent shoulder reconstruction shortly after. He faced a setback due to an infection during his recovery but is now a slim possibility for Round 1.

Ponga has been participating in a modified training regimen as he slowly progresses through rehabilitation for a Lisfranc injury incurred in June.