The South Sydney Rabbitohs face a significant challenge as they head into the NRL finals, having recently lost veteran Euan Aitken for the remainder of the season.
Aitken injured his shoulder during the Rabbitohs' victory over the Roosters last Friday night. He was seen in a sling following the match while taking photos with teammates, including Jai Arrow.
On Monday, the club confirmed he is sidelined with a fractured scapula. "Euan Aitken will miss the remainder of the 2026 season," the Rabbitohs stated. "We wish you all the best with your recovery, Euie!"
Aitken's absence will impact the team, especially as his versatility would have been beneficial during the finals. The 31-year-old has played 224 games over 12 years, with experience at the Dragons, Warriors, Dolphins, and most recently the Rabbitohs.
Though it was unlikely he would have started in the finals due to Latrell Mitchell's anticipated return to the centers, Aitken's experience could have provided valuable depth.
He has not played in a final since his debut season with St George Illawarra in 2015, making this injury particularly disappointing for him.
The Rabbitohs are set to face the Knights in their first elimination final at Allianz Stadium on Friday. Teammate Cody Walker noted that they would channel the fight against motor neurone disease, which Arrow is battling, to inspire their campaign.
"It's one of those things that we can certainly harness the emotion and use him as a bit of an inspiration for the rest of the year," Walker commented. He emphasized the importance of staying focused on the task at hand in these challenging moments.