Overview
- Strange rolled his left ankle at a Blues training session on Thursday at Cbus Super Stadium and limped off for immediate treatment.
- He told reporters he expects to be fine but doctors say the next 24 to 48 hours are critical as they monitor swelling and stability.
- Canterbury’s Lachie Galvin was brought into camp as short-term cover and Matt Burton has been identified and rushed in as the leading replacement option if Strange is ruled out.
- Dolphins halfback Isaiya Katoa is unavailable with an arm/wrist injury and the Blues have already managed earlier series hits to Mitchell Moses and Casey McLean, while Stephen Crichton has rejoined camp feeling improved.
- Strange’s likely absence would alter the Blues’ bench role because he offered both halves cover and forward energy, which could force a more traditional forward rotation and change NSW’s tactical approach in the decider.