Tom Trbojevic's aspirations for the State of Origin are now dashed following scans that revealed he would be sidelined for six to eight weeks due to a hamstring injury.
If he requires a six-week recovery, Trbojevic could potentially make his return for Manly's first match after the opening game of the State of Origin series.
However, should he need the full eight weeks, the 10-time NSW representative would miss both that match and Origin II, only to return for round 16.
Having started the season strongly with the Sea Eagles, Trbojevic was in line for a position in NSW's outside backs, but now faces the reality of missing a third consecutive series.
The 29-year-old sustained a moderate hamstring injury to his left leg during the first half of Manly's convincing victory against North Queensland on Thursday.
As he left the field in Townsville, Trbojevic appeared heartbroken, with this new injury marking the eighth he has endured in the past eight seasons.
The unfortunate former Dally M Medallist seems on track to face an eighth straight year of not exceeding 20 games in a single season.
In the interim, Tolu Koula stands ready to step up as a fullback replacement during this crucial period, testing Manly's resurgence under interim coach Kieran Foran.
Clayton Faulalo is expected to take up a position in the centres, as he did in Thursday's match, which marked Manly's third consecutive win since Foran's appointment.