Bradman Best’s Hamstring Injury: A Major Blow for Newcastle Knights and NSW Blues
Newcastle Knights centre Bradman Best has suffered a significant hamstring injury, sidelining him for an estimated two to three months. This setback not only impacts the Knights’ NRL campaign but also rules Best out of contention for the upcoming State of Origin series, dealing a blow to the New South Wales Blues.
Injury Details
Best sustained the injury during a training session just hours before Newcastle’s match against the Parramatta Eels on Friday. Head coach Adam O’Brien described the injury as being in a “tricky spot,” noting that while Best retains strength in the hamstring, the location complicates the recovery process. This injury continues a troubling pattern for Best, who has experienced multiple hamstring issues in recent seasons.
Impact on Newcastle Knights
The Knights are already grappling with a challenging season, and Best’s absence further strains their roster. In response, Dylan Lucas is expected to shift into the centres, with Thomas Cant joining the starting lineup. The team may also adjust their interchange bench, considering players like Jack Hetherington or Paul Bryan to fill the gaps.
State of Origin Implications
Best’s injury is a significant setback for the NSW Blues ahead of the State of Origin series. Having been a strong contender for a centre position, his unavailability forces coach Laurie Daley to reconsider his options. The Blues are already dealing with injuries to key players, including captain Jake Trbojevic and Jacob Saifiti, further complicating team selections.
Looking Ahead
As Best embarks on his recovery journey, both the Knights and the Blues will need to adapt to his absence. The Knights must find ways to bolster their lineup amid ongoing challenges, while the Blues will have to strategize without one of their promising talents for the State of Origin series.
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