The Sydney Roosters have faced a severe setback in their quest for the premiership, as star halfback Sam Walker has been deemed out for the season following scans that revealed a high-grade syndesmosis injury.
Walker is set to have season-ending surgery this week after sustaining the injury during the Roosters' 26-12 defeat to the Dolphins at Allianz Stadium on Saturday night, as reported by CODE Sports.
The 24-year-old exited the field in the 53rd minute after his ankle was caught awkwardly in a tackle by Dolphins forward Kulikefu Finefeuiaki.
Initially, the Roosters had been anxiously awaiting scan results, with coach Trent Robinson hoping Walker might return for the finals.
However, the worst possible news was confirmed, leaving the Tricolours without their key playmaker and facing significant selection challenges as September approaches.
This marks yet another disappointing turn for Walker, who has now seen his season cut short for the second time in three years.
The incident occurred when Finefeuiaki's knees were already down before sliding into contact with Walker's foot.
The Bunker reviewed the tackle but concluded there was no hip drop or foul play involved.
Walker showed evident pain as he left the field, with immediate concerns suggesting a syndesmosis injury was sustained.