Penrith Panthers standout Casey McLean is set to be sidelined for approximately four weeks due to a strained thigh sustained during the NSW Blues camp for Game 2.
The 20-year-old athlete was slated to play left centre for the Blues, but an injury on Saturday has prevented him from making a second appearance in Melbourne for his state.
According to Code Sports, McLean's four-week recovery period will result in him missing Game 3, limiting his total appearances in the sky blue jersey to just one this year.
McLean made a notable debut in Game 1, stepping in effectively for the concussed Tolutau Koula, which showcased his potential.
This performance earned him a starting position, but misfortune struck as he sustained an injury shortly after.
In McLean's absence, Mark Nawaqanitawase will be elevated to the starting lineup, allowing Koula to shift back to his favored left centre position, while Dolphins star Jack Bostock will join the six-man interchange bench.
This season, McLean has been one of the standout players for the Penrith Panthers, forming a potent partnership on the left edge with try-scoring talent Thomas Jenkins.
During his absence, Izack Tago is expected to fill McLean's role at left centre, as he is currently utilized as a utility off the bench.
Prior to joining the Blues camp, McLean was already dealing with an injury after leaving the field while playing against the Wests Tigers in their 68-0 victory two rounds ago.