Bold statement: A major rookie setback has the Roosters scrambling just weeks before the season, as a key recruit faces a lengthy sidelining. And this is the part most people miss: even star signings can stumble, yet teams adapt quickly and keep plans intact.
Reece Robson’s first appearance for the Roosters will be delayed by at least eight weeks after the representative hooker suffered a hand fracture earlier in the week. The club announced the high-profile signing late last year, confirming that the former Cowboys playmaker would join on a lucrative four-year contract.
Robson, 27, had been set to debut in this weekend’s trial against the Parramatta Eels, with both clubs naming their preferred spine for the final pre-season bout. Instead, the injury forced coach Trent Robinson to shuffle his plans at the last moment.
Despite the setback, the Roosters remain well equipped at dummy-half. Connor Watson, a versatile option, is the most probable replacement, with talented youngster Benaiah Ioelu also in contention to take the role.
The timetable suggests Robson won’t be back until mid-April, which raises early questions about his availability for State of Origin selection in late May if his recovery hits any delays.
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