The Roosters have been lifted by the news that halfback Sam Walker has been given the green light to play in Thursday’s crucial matchup against the Panthers. However, they will be missing Lindsay Collins due to a confirmed low-grade hamstring injury.
Initially, Walker’s availability for the round 4 game was uncertain after being categorized as a category 1 following an incident last week where Jack Wighton’s elbow unintentionally struck him in the head. However, after showing no signs of concussion, the club appealed the decision, and the NRL has cleared him to participate in the match against the premiers.
The Roosters confirmed in a statement that Sam Walker was removed from the field following a category 1 concussion assessment, with the young half experiencing neck discomfort from the awkward collision.
However, after passing two head injury assessments on the night and showing no symptoms since, the NRL downgraded the classification to category 2, making him available for the Roosters’ round 4 match against the Penrith Panthers.
While Walker is expected to be included in the lineup on Tuesday, Lindsay Collins, a representative forward, is facing time on the sidelines after sustaining a hamstring injury in the victory over the Rabbitohs.
Even with a minor strain, Collins is likely to be sidelined for a few weeks, while Sandon Smith is also facing an indefinite period out after injuring his elbow in the significant win over South Sydney.
Luke Keary is set to return directly in place of Smith, who contributed to two tries with well-executed kicks. Connor Watson is anticipated to retain his spot on the bench after making a successful comeback following over 500 days out of the NRL.
Additionally, unlucky center Billy Smith is also looking at some time off the field after scans confirmed an ankle injury sustained during the NSW Cup.
The Roosters disclosed that Lindsay Collins has been diagnosed with a mild left hamstring strain following an MRI. He has already begun the club’s hamstring rehabilitation program.
Meanwhile, Sandon Smith experienced an elbow hyperextension just before halftime. Scans have revealed a considerable medial ligament injury to his left elbow. The medical staff has initiated rehabilitation for this non-surgical injury and will conduct further assessments to determine his return-to-play timeline.