Addo-Carr, Kikau set for longer on NRL sidelines

Scott Bailey | April 27, 2023

Josh Addo-Carr won’t return to NRL action in time for NSW’s State of Origin series opener, while Canterbury teammate Viliame Kikau is expected to spend at least three more months on the sideline.

The latest update on the star duo provides a shattering double blow for the Bulldogs, who are also set to be without workmanlike prop Max King against St George Illawarra this week due to a rib injury. 

Addo-Carr has not played since he suffered a syndesmosis injury against South Sydney on Good Friday when his ankle rolled on the Accor Stadium turf.

The flying winger suggested earlier this month he was hopeful of returning within five weeks of the injury, in time for Origin I in Adelaide on May 31.

But Canterbury confirmed on Thursday that was not realistic.

In an official injury update on their website, Addo-Carr is now predicted to return in six to eight weeks, with the club eyeing a comeback in round 15 against Parramatta.

That would leave the 27-year-old only one match to push for NSW selection in Origin II on June 21.

It comes after incumbent NSW winger Daniel Tupou suffered a hamstring tear in the Sydney Roosters’ Anzac Day win over the Dragons.

Brian To’o appears locked in on one wing for NSW, but the options are now limited on the other with Tom Trbojevic one possibility to play out wide while introducing Campbell Graham in the centres.

The news is also bad for Kikau.

When the high-profile recruit ruptured his pectoral muscle earlier this month the club expected him to spend at least 10 weeks on the sideline.

However, the predicted return has now blown out far longer, with his anticipated return now on July 30 in round 22 against the Dolphins.

“Scans revealed a full rupture and he has since undergone repair surgery and is recovering well,” the Bulldogs said in a statement.

“He will now begin his rehabilitation process and the club will work with the relevant medical professionals to manage his injury post operatively.”

King, meanwhile, will have his injury assessed by a surgeon, according to club football boss Phil Gould, who confirmed the reliable forward’s injury on Twitter.