A fractured cheekbone looks set to keep Queensland Reds and Wallabies centre Hunter Paisami out of next Saturday’s Super Rugby AU final.
The in-form midfielder’s injury came after heavy contact with a Western Force defender in the first half of their loss in Perth on the weekend.
The club revealed the injury on Thursday, saying Paisami could miss up to four weeks but he does not require surgery.
One of the competition’s form players, Paisami’s absence would be a blow for the side whose only loss this season came in their final regular-season game with a grand-final berth already secured.
Rookie centre Josh Flook performed well in Paisami’s absence, while Hamish Stewart has made the No.12 his own this season as Jordan Petaia spent time on the wing and the centres.
The Reds will host the final at Suncorp Stadium next Saturday night against the winner of Saturday’s qualifying final between the Brumbies and Western Force.
Busted Fullback
Roar Rookie
The injury to HP is very unfortunate for HP. However, what we have witnessed over the last few years is the development of a team that has depth and versatility. To not have one of the best players in the comp available is a disappointment for the player, team and fans but it is not the end of the road. The Reds are now a team that have gone through some tough times only to build strength in the team and trust in all the squad members. And the members trust the coaching staff. The team that takes the field on Saturday, May 8, will be confident that they can achieve their goal, no matter who's wearing which jersey. I have my ticket, for the same seat I've had since the Reds went to Lang Park, the same seat I was sitting in in 2011 and the seat I'll occupy next year. I look forward to watching those goals being achieved next weekend, not because of the efforts of one or two players but because of the efforts of an organisation with one goal in mind.
Rhys Bosley
Roar Pro
It's a big bummer, but the silver lining us that it makes Thorn's decision on whether or not to start Vunivalu if he is back, as Petaia can switch back to 13. I reckon Jordie's early season poor form was result of starting a new combination and a bit of lost confidence after rough six months, with his former back and Stewart beside him, I reckon he would be imperious at 13 again. Otherwise Flock is up for the task and the Reds have plenty of midfield plays with the big inside backs and the fast loose forwards if they need more fire-power there.
Tooly
Roar Rookie
Copped a bit of his own for once. He is developing into a very good player. No brainer move Petals to 13.
Tooly
Roar Rookie
As long as Murphy and Berry stay fit the Reds are laughing.
Adsa
Roar Rookie
Quite the conundrum for Thorn. Does he do a straight swap of Flook for Paisami or shunt Petaia in one spot and free a wing spot up for Jock?
Red Rob
Roar Rookie
Ok, I stand corrected! :silly:
Number12
Roar Rookie
While TK blindsided him with a solid hit, it was the subsequent and accidental head clash with Timani that caused the damage!
I doubt any of the Reds will take the field against the Force but wouldnt be great for WA rugby!!!
He looks bloody good in attack to me.....
James GC
Roar Rookie
Valentini would top that list, but Hunter is in the top 3 and leading the backs for the season for sure.
Harry Selassie
Roar Rookie
A major loss for the Reds. For my money Paisami has been one of the five best players in Super Rugby AU this season (and top 5 is a conservative estimate.)
soapit
Roar Guru
up to 4 weeks, so tt still on
soapit
Roar Guru
thats what i would do. wasnt so long ago that was first choice
stillmissit
Roar Guru
"Tonight, tonight, won't be just any night' 'today the minutes go slowly and the hours go slowly' https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lQOkqTYa33o
Doctordbx
Roar Rookie
He's scored a couple of tries already. I think he's pretty decent in attack.
savant
Roar Rookie
Put this one down to Damon Murphy! If he'd sent TK off for the tip tackle (as the judiciary thought he should have), it would never have happened. Perese will at least feel like he hasn't been discriminated against. Big blow for the Reds. HP has been huge for the reds since the beginning of last season. He puts every opposition off their game and structure. They look for him, over commit, worry about him. Petaia may well have to move into 13 to maintain that unsettling effect.
The Late News
Roar Rookie
may the Force be with you!
ScottD
Roar Guru
Well he won't be able to take the field against the Force then :silly:
stillmissit
Roar Guru
Sorry Rob, it is the tragedy of rugby, you think you are headed for a grand final and your injured at the last minute. Feel sorry for Paisami but I think you'll have enough fire power to take it and I am sure the guys will be up for it following the loss and now Paisami. Nobody will be thinking it is ours!
Red Rob
Roar Rookie
Possibly mz. Flook looked good in D but he’s not a threat in attack. Hope Campbell is back.