The South Sydney Rabbitohs have reached out to the NRL to expedite the promotion of Matt Dufty following an unfortunate injury to emerging fullback Jye Gray.
Gray is set to be sidelined for up to four weeks after sustaining damage to his AC joint, prompting the Rabbitohs to reevaluate their spine strategy ahead of their upcoming clash with the St George Illawarra Dragons.
According to NRL regulations, reserve-grade players cannot ascend to first grade until after round 11, unless a club can prove a significant shortage in a specific position-conditions that South Sydney argues now apply.
Dufty, who is now 30, recently returned to Australia after playing in the Super League and was initially signed as a support player for the NSW Cup.
However, Gray's injury has hastened talks regarding an early promotion, with Dufty potentially being called up as soon as this weekend.
In the immediate aftermath of Gray's injury, Latrell Mitchell temporarily moved to fullback, but a permanent change would disrupt the team's dynamics.
Mitchell has been integral to a successful left-edge partnership at centre, and relocating him could compromise a system that has proven effective this season.
The situation is further complicated by limited depth, as Isaiah Tass is ruled out due to injury and Tyrone Munro is currently suspended.
Nevertheless, adjustments can still be made without Dufty, and all eyes will be on whether the NRL approves the requested exemption.