Rabbitohs star facing extended stint on sidelines in injury blow

South Sydney are bracing for an extended period without star centre Jack Wighton, with the club fearing he could be sidelined for up to two months following the injury he sustained in their clash with the Newcastle Knights.

Read more Muramatsu leads PDC Asian Darts Tour after latest weekend in Malaysia

Wighton was unable to return to the field after suffering a forearm injury during a tackle involving Knights fullback Kalyn Ponga, with initial assessments pointing strongly towards a fracture of the radius.

Medical staff identified the likely location of the damage shortly after the incident, with the radius — the bone running along the thumb side of the forearm — particularly vulnerable in heavy contact when force is applied awkwardly, as was the case in the collision.

While the club is still awaiting official confirmation through scans, early indications have the Rabbitohs preparing for the likelihood that Wighton will miss between six to eight weeks, a timeline consistent with similar injuries across the NRL.

MORE: Roosters star likely set for surgery as club updates multiple injury concerns

Read more Cowboys provide major update on Origin star’s shoulder injury

(Getty Images)

The setback comes at a critical stage of the season, with the Rabbitohs firmly entrenched in the top four until last rounds loss to the Knights and battling through multiple other injuries.

Wighton’s absence is expected to force a reshuffle in the backline, likely seeing the versatile Campbell Graham shift form the wing to centre.

South Sydney are expected to confirm the full extent of the injury once imaging results are returned, but internally the focus has already shifted to managing life without Wighton longer term.

Their next chance to move back into the top four will come in their round ten clash against the in form Cronulla Sharks at Accor Stadium.

Read more SkyCity Cuts FY26 Earnings Due to Cost Increases and Reduced Consumer Spending