LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
The Canberra Raiders face a significant setback ahead of their qualifying final against the Broncos as veteran Josh Papalii is racing against time to recover from a severe ankle injury sustained at training. The injury reportedly occurred during a scrimmage on Friday, necessitating assistance to remove Papalii from the field.
Since the injury, the 33-year-old has been in a moon boot, and the team's hopes hinge on his recovery for Sunday's match against Brisbane. Earlier, Papalii was among ten players rested by coach Ricky Stuart during Canberra's recent loss to the Dolphins. As a precaution, he will be inactive in training leading up to Saturday's captain's run.
If Papalii is unable to participate, Stuart has the option of calling on Trey Mooney or Matty Nicholson. Nicholson, who displayed exceptional form before an ankle injury, has been waiting in reserve grade since his return last month.
Given the circumstances, Stuart may choose to exercise caution with Papalii. The Raiders have a second chance in the finals if they lose to the Broncos, as minor premiers will advance directly to the preliminary final with a week off. Thus, a loss wouldn't eliminate them from the competition.
The Broncos are also considering a cautious approach with their skipper, Adam Reynolds, as he aims to recover from a hamstring strain. Reynolds hasn't played since Round 23, when the injury occurred against the Storm, and he recently experienced a minor setback during training.
Despite Reynolds' absence, the Broncos have been successful, winning their last four games with a makeshift halves combination of Ben Hunt and Billy Walters. This duo has effectively utilized fullback Reece Walsh, who has emerged as one of the top players in the league over the past month, largely due to the early ball provided by Hunt and Walters.