NSW VB Blues star Josh Dugan is set to miss the opening the two State of Origin games, with club medical staff determining that he will require surgery on his elbow injury.
The Dragons fullback and centre originally hyperextended his left elbow during a clash with the South Sydney Rabbitohs at ANZ Stadium on the 19th of May, but had first expected to be fit and healthy before the opening Origin encounter at the same venue on Wednesday. Unfortunately, Dugan reaggravated the injury during a training session on Saturday and yesterday ruled himself out of contention for Game I. He is now expected to miss four weeks which would also see him miss Game II at Suncorp Stadium.
Dragons Head of Medical and Performance Tony Ayoub explained the injury to Dragons.com.au: "Josh suffered a hyperextension injury to his left elbow during the game against the Rabbitohs and his initial scans showed a small fracture in the anterior part of the joint as well as an old fragment in the posterior joint.
“Club medical staff have again consulted with the orthopaedic specialist and after further scans we believe the best course of action for Josh will be to remove the fragments via an arthroscope.
“This will give him the best opportunity to complete the season without further exacerbating his elbow."
The NSWRL wish Dugan all the best for a speedy recovery and thank him for his efforts in camp this year.
