In his final chance to push for State of Origin selection ahead of Monday night's Game One team announcement, Brisbane Broncos centre James Roberts has suffered an apparent achilles injury.
Roberts, who left the field in the 60th minute of the Broncos' Round 12 victory over the Eels, had been in fine form in 2018, prompting Brydens Lawyers NSW Blues coach Brad Fittler to sing his praises prior to the weekend. While Roberts' speed had him in the frame for an Origin debut - and had helped him score another try on Thursday night - the untimely injury had many fans particularly concerned.
Speaking after the match, Brisbane coach Wayne Bennett was optimistic that the injury was not severe and would not affect Roberts' Origin chances.
"Well he's been struggling with that achilles since the start of pre-season, virtually," Bennett said. "He'll be 'right. It flares up every day.
"I'm sure he'll play Origin if he gets picked. Whatever pain he's got today will go away very quickly."
Fittler will name his side for the series opener on Monday night, before the team prepares for the game on 6 June at the MCG.
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