The Wests Tigers have ruled star fullback James Tedesco out of Sunday's clash with the Newcastle Knights with an ankle injury.
Tedesco missed last week's clash against the Titans following State of Origin II but is expected to be fit for New South Wales in the Origin decider.
"James won't play — he hasn't come through from the ankle injury," Tigers coach Ivan Cleary said.
"We'll keep that backline pretty similar to what it was last week.
"Kev [Naiqama] has had a few weeks at fullback now and has learned a bit each time. He's certainly familiar with the ground at Newcastle and is looking forward to playing well.
"James should be fine for Origin."
This article first appeared on NRL.com
