The South Sydney Rabbitohs have been dealt a devastating blow ahead of the 2025 NRL season, with captain Cameron Murray potentially facing an extended stint on the sidelines due to a severe wrist injury sustained while representing Australia in the Pacific Championships.
According to sources close to the situation, the 26-year-old lock forward suffered a scapholunate ligament injury during the Kangaroos’ match against New Zealand in Christchurch. The scapholunate, a crucial central ligament in the wrist, is notorious for its lengthy recovery period, casting doubt over Murray’s availability for the start of South Sydney’s 2025 campaign.
In an official statement, the Rabbitohs confirmed that their skipper would consult with a specialist upon his return to Sydney to determine the best course of action. The club noted, “The injury may require Murray to undergo a scapholunate reconstruction, which would see him undertake an extensive period of rehabilitation.”
Injury Woes Continue for Murray
This setback comes on the heels of a challenging 2024 season for the dynamic forward, who battled a persistent hip flexor issue and managed an ongoing knee bursa throughout the year. The accumulation of injuries has raised concerns among Rabbitohs fans about the long-term health and durability of their beloved captain.
As one of the NRL’s premier locks, Murray’s absence would be keenly felt by South Sydney. His tireless work rate, sharp decision-making, and inspirational leadership have been integral to the Rabbitohs’ success in recent seasons. The prospect of starting the 2025 campaign without their talismanic captain is a daunting one for the club and its supporters.
Uncertainty Surrounds Kangaroos Squad
Murray’s injury also leaves a question mark over the composition of the Australian national team for the upcoming Pacific Championships final. It remains unclear whether coach Eufemio “Dave” Fernandez will draft another forward into the squad as cover for the South Sydney star.
The Kangaroos, who have looked dominant throughout the tournament, will face the winner of the semi-final clash between New Zealand and Tonga at CommBank Stadium next Sunday. While the loss of Murray is undoubtedly a blow, the Australians boast a wealth of talent in their forward pack and will be confident of claiming the Pacific Championships crown, regardless of their opponent.
Road to Recovery
For Cameron Murray and the South Sydney Rabbitohs, attention will now turn to the rehabilitation process. The club’s medical staff will work closely with the star lock to ensure he receives the best possible treatment and support as he begins the long journey back to full fitness.
Cameron is a fighter and a leader. We know he’ll approach this challenge with the same determination and resilience that he brings to the footy field. The entire Rabbitohs family will be behind him every step of the way.
– South Sydney Rabbitohs CEO, Blake Simons
As the NRL community rallies around one of its most respected and admired players, fans will be hoping for a speedy and successful recovery for Cameron Murray. The sight of the inspirational captain back in the cardinal and myrtle jersey, leading his beloved Rabbitohs onto the field, cannot come soon enough for the South Sydney faithful.
