The Sydney Roosters have been dealt a massive blow ahead of the finals, with star halfback Sam Walker and key hooker Brandon Smith both suffering ACL injuries in a disastrous match against the Canberra Raiders at Allianz Stadium on Sunday. Scans confirmed the worst fears, with the pair now facing significant time on the sidelines.

In a statement released on Monday, the Roosters confirmed that Walker will undergo surgery for a ruptured ACL in his left knee. The dynamic playmaker, who has been central to the Roosters’ attacking structure, will now focus on his rehabilitation with hopes of returning stronger in 2025.

Meanwhile, Brandon Smith sustained both MCL and ACL damage in his right knee after a hip-drop tackle from Raiders forward Elliott Whitehead. Smith will initially be placed in a brace, with the medical staff set to decide on whether surgery will be required in the coming weeks. His loss is another crushing blow to the Roosters’ forward pack, with the Kiwi international renowned for his aggressive style and game-breaking ability.

The horror show at Allianz Stadium didn’t end there. Enforcer Victor Radley was diagnosed with a fractured scapula after a heavy collision in the second half. Although the Roosters have left the door slightly ajar for his return late in the season, Radley will see a shoulder specialist to determine the extent of his injury and a potential return date.

Adding to the injury woes, back-rower Nat Butcher has entered the NRL’s concussion protocols following a head knock. Butcher is expected to serve the mandatory 11-day stand-down period but should be available for the opening week of the finals, providing some relief for the injury-hit Roosters.

Elsewhere in the NRL

The Roosters aren’t the only team grappling with significant injuries. The Manly Sea Eagles have been dealt a double blow, with star fullback Tom Trbojevic and winger Jason Saab set to miss the final round of the regular season. Trbojevic suffered a Grade 3 AC shoulder injury in their clash against the Sharks, while Saab sustained a high-ankle sprain. Trbojevic is expected to be fit for the finals, but Saab’s return remains uncertain.

The Canberra Raiders have also taken a hit, with veteran outside back Jordan Rapana suffering a fractured cheekbone in the same match. Coach Ricky Stuart suggested that Rapana may have played his last game for the Raiders, marking a significant loss for the club as they approach the business end of the season.

Meanwhile, the Brisbane Broncos are monitoring the fitness of Kotoni Staggs and Brendan Piakura after both players picked up injuries ahead of their Round 27 clash with the Storm. Staggs is battling a quad issue, while Piakura is dealing with syndesmosis. Their availability will be determined after further assessment.

Injury Updates for Key Finals Contenders

In Melbourne, fullback Ryan Papenhuyzen received positive news after scans revealed bone bruising in his leg, suffered during the Storm’s win over the Cowboys. He will be monitored closely ahead of their final regular season clash against the Broncos, with his status still uncertain. Melbourne’s centre Marion Seve wasn’t as lucky, with a syndesmosis injury ruling him out for the rest of the season.

Despite these setbacks, the Storm received a boost with winger Xavier Coates set to return from a hamstring injury. Coates, who has been training strongly, will suit up for the Broncos game to get some crucial match fitness ahead of the finals.

In positive news for the Penrith Panthers, superstar Nathan Cleary has avoided immediate surgery on his injured shoulder. The reigning premiers are confident that Cleary will be ready to lead their charge for a third consecutive title, with the playmaker expected to be fit for the finals.

Finals Countdown Begins

As the 2024 NRL season nears its climax, several top teams are scrambling to patch up their squads and stay healthy for a deep finals run. For the Roosters, the loss of Walker and Smith will be keenly felt, but the squad will be hoping that their depth can carry them through as they aim for a strong finish in the finals.