LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
The Sydney Roosters face significant challenges as they aim to secure a top-eight spot in the NRL.
Forward Nat Butcher is set to join halfback Sam Walker on the sidelines due to a fresh injury setback.
Walker, who was poised to make his season debut following a lengthy rehabilitation from an ACL injury, sustained a fractured right thumb during training just days before last week's controversial four-point defeat against Newcastle.
After successfully undergoing surgery on Thursday, he is now beginning his rehabilitation, effectively sidelining him for another month.
The Roosters' depth will be tested further with Butcher's recurrence of an MCL strain, which is expected to keep him out for the next six weeks.
"It's likely to keep the versatile forward out of action for the next six weeks in another blow for the Tri Colours."
The team currently sits eighth on the NRL ladder, with several rivals closely pursuing them as the finals approach.
The upcoming match against North Queensland is crucial for the Roosters, as a win for the Cowboys would allow them to leapfrog the Roosters in the standings.
On top of these challenges, the Roosters will also be without forwards Victor Radley and Egan Butcher for the clash against the Cowboys due to concussion protocols stemming from their recent game against the Knights.
Radley sustained his second game-ending head knock of the season while attempting to tackle Fletcher Hunt.
Overall, the Roosters are grappling with multiple player absences at a pivotal moment in the season as they fight to maintain their position in the finals race.