Campbell Graham's Injury Woes Continue as South Sydney Suffers Blow
South Sydney Rabbitohs have been dealt a significant setback with winger Campbell Graham ruled out of the upcoming match against the Wests Tigers due to a shoulder injury. Graham sustained the issue during last Friday's loss to the Sydney Roosters and has not recovered in time for Saturday night's game in Gosford.
Graham's Frustrating Injury History
This latest setback adds to a horror run of injuries for Graham in recent years. He was injured in the opening round of 2023 and played through pain for the entire campaign. Subsequently, he missed the whole of 2024 following pre-season surgery, and a calf issue early last year eventually led to an operation on his back.
Earlier this week, Graham expressed hope that he had turned a corner, noting that his body was holding up well aside from general soreness after games. He told reporters, "Footy comes with injuries and that’s just part of the game we play. There were some tough times for sure, some long days, long weeks and long months. I’m lucky I am at a club where they give great care. I want to give a shout out to the medical staff who put me physically and mentally in a good place."
South Sydney's Injury Concerns and Replacements
Graham's absence is one of two injury blows for the Rabbitohs, with Euan Aitken also set to miss the Tigers clash due to a cork injury that has left him unable to run. In response, Moala Graham-Taufa will start in Graham's place, marking his sixth NRL match after debuting for the Roosters in 2021.
Rabbitohs coach Wayne Bennett commented on Graham-Taufa, saying, "He’s not tall, but big. They have done a great job with him at the Warriors, he’s highly skilled. He’ll get his opportunity tomorrow. I haven’t seen a lot of him to make comment, but we’re happy to have him here."
Return Hopes and Team Updates
South Sydney are hopeful that Graham will return to play on Good Friday against Canterbury after next week's bye. Additionally, the team welcomes back Jamie Humphreys, their first-choice halfback who missed the opening two rounds through suspension. Humphreys, 24, spent part of his summer in Melbourne working with AFL clubs on his kicking, having gone from a cut-price deal to claiming Souths' No.7 jersey last year.
Bennett praised Humphreys' initiative, stating, "It was a great initiative by him and showed a real commitment by him. Combinations are everything in the game. We’re only two weeks into the season but it’s good to have him back." After being ravaged by injuries last year, Humphreys will now have the chance to steer a South Sydney team that is somewhat closer to full strength.
Bennett also confirmed that Souths expect to have hooker Brandon Smith back from a calf injury after the bye, providing further depth to the squad as they navigate the early stages of the NRL season.
