Penrith second-rower Viliame Kikau has been ruled out for up to six weeks of rugby league after undergoing scans on his right knee on Monday.
Kikau suffered the injury early in Saturday’s NRL trial win over South Sydney – the Panthers’ first hitout of the season.
“He (Kikau) will rehab strongly and come back better than ever,” Panthers boss Phil Gould said on social media on Monday.
With the Panthers’ NRL opener against Parramatta not until March 16, the Fijian international may only miss three games of the season.
Returning coach Ivan Cleary could have Kikau back in time for the club’s round-four clash with the Wests Tigers.
Kikau’s absence will be an early test of the Panthers’ depth, with former South Sydney forward Tyrell Fuimaono their only summer signing in the backrow.
Lock James Fisher-Harris could be an option to shift to the edge, opening a spot for ex-St George Illawarra middle forward Hame Sele.
The Panthers round out their pre-season preparations with a trial against Parramatta on Saturday, before meeting the Eels again at home in round one.
Albo
Roar Rookie
Ouch ! That didn't take long . 3 minutes into the first trial match to lose your left side attack for a few weeks. Hopefully that is not a sign of another ordinary year of injuries ahead. They are light on for edge running forwards as well , now that Peachey & Harawirra - Naira are gone, and maybe a couple of their 25 locks might have to get out wider and sprint harder at training. They do have Tyrell Fuimaono back with some experience gained at Souths. Or else the Fish, or Mad Jack, or Hame Sele might fill in for now ?
The Barry
Roar Guru
That’s a bugger...love watching this bloke play. Back to the drawing board for my SuperCoach team. Ivan Cleary may need to rethink his leadership group too...it’s down to 15 members now!
BA Sports
Roar Guru
That knee was pretty scratchy at the back end of last season as well. I would say there may be some cause for concern there.