Canberra flyer Nick Cotric is set to miss State of Origin II after limping from GIO Stadium with a feared syndesmosis injury in the Raiders' 22-20 win over Cronulla on Thursday night.
The incumbent NSW winger, who made his debut for the Blues in last week's series-opening 18-14 loss, has just three days to prove his fitness before the team is named on Sunday.
Nick Cotric off with left ankle injury, by video concern for medial/high ankle sprain with possible fibula contusion/cork as tackler’s boot came down on outside of lower leg. Would hope no fracture. If confirmed usually 2-8 weeks recovery range pending severity #NRLRaidersSharks pic.twitter.com/oEC5sOJgS5
— NRL PHYSIO (@nrlphysio) June 13, 2019
Cotric's left ankle copped the weight of Wade Graham in the 67th minute when the Sharks back-rower accidentally trod on the Raiders centre when attempting a tackle.
Graham went over and shook Cotric's hand as the 20-year-old was assessed by trainers.
Speaking after full-time, Cotric didn’t sound hopeful of making a miracle recovery and facing Queensland at Optus Stadium on June 23.
"It's pretty sore, mate. I think I might have done my syndesmosis," Cotric told ABC radio.
"I can't really walk on it. I'll get a scan tonight. Hopefully it's not too bad, I just heard a crack."
Cotric's injury may solve a problem for NSW coach Brad Fittler, however, who needs to find a place for the returning Tom Trbojevic in his backline.
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If Cotric is ruled out, Trbojevic would likely slot onto the right wing while veteran Josh Morris holds his place in the centres with Latrell Mitchell.
Trbojevic, an integral player in the Blues' series victory in 2018, missed Origin I with a hamstring problem.
He made a successful return to the paddock at fullback for Manly last round.
Fittler confirmed Cotric was certain to be in his side to play in Perth before his injury.
"He would have been there Sunday but not to be, that's why we don't pick them until Sunday," Fittler said on Channel Nine.