LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
NSW coach Laurie Daley has expressed concern over Blues winger Brian To'o's recovery from a hamstring injury, noting it has not improved as anticipated.
Bulldogs winger Jacob Kiraz has been brought into the Blues camp as a potential backup for To'o ahead of Game 2 in Perth, where NSW aims to secure the series with another victory.
Daley revealed that To'o has suffered two hamstring strains this year and missed the beginning of the NRL season.
While he remains hopeful that To'o will be fit for the match against the Maroons, he acknowledged the medical team's concerns regarding his progress.
"We thought earlier in the week Brian would be OK ...
but it just hasn't progressed as far as what we need him to," Daley stated during a segment on Nine's Today Show.
He emphasized the importance of ensuring the winger is fully recovered before game day to avoid exacerbating the injury and jeopardizing the team.
In contrast to Daley's cautious outlook, fellow NSW winger Zac Lomax expressed confidence in To'o's capability to play.
"He's obviously a professional and he's going to get the job done," Lomax remarked in an interview with Fox League.
He praised the team's medical staff, stating, "we've got the best staff in the world here with us," and noted that To'o would probably sit out a training session to manage his workload.
Lomax perceived the inclusion of Kiraz in training as beneficial too, highlighting Kiraz's impressive form with the Bulldogs.
As the days progress, the team's decision on To'o's fitness will be crucial for their strategy heading into the pivotal match.
The coaching and medical staff will need to carefully evaluate all factors affecting To'o's readiness by the end of the week.