The Wests Tigers are preparing to send Starford To'a for scans following a suspected groin injury he sustained during the team's defeat against the New Zealand Warriors on Friday.
In a challenging turn of events, Samuela Fainu also appeared to suffer a similar injury while attempting to fend off Te Maire Martin, but instead lost his footing and awkwardly extended his leg.
This match marked Fainu's return after a lengthy hiatus due to a right foot injury he incurred in Round 9. The Tigers are fighting hard to keep their finals aspirations alive.
Despite these injuries, coach Benji Marshall assured that Fainu would be fine. He noted that Fainu's time off the field was part of a planned return to match fitness, while To'a is left anxiously anticipating the results of his injury evaluation.
"Starford's done his groin," Marshall stated in his post-match press conference.
"Samuela, nah he's fine. First game back, probably a little under done. So he was on a bit of a minutes restriction tonight, so that was always planned for him come off around that time. So, he's fine."
To'a is currently in his fifth season with the Tigers, yet has faced challenges in securing a spot in the first-grade lineup, managing only eight appearances in 2026.
The Tongan international is set to join the Manly Sea Eagles next year on a two-year deal, having received the Tigers' permission to speak with rivals.
With the Tigers having utilized Heamasi Makasini and starting Taylan May in the centre positions for 2026, along with their recent acquisition of Jake Averillo, the decision for To'a to seek new opportunities became apparent.