Injuries to experienced players Dallin Watene-Zelezniak and Marata Niukore have prompted additional lineup adjustments for the One New Zealand Warriors ahead of their fifth-round clash against South Sydney at Accor Stadium on Saturday (3.00 pm kick-off local time, 5.00 pm NZT).
This development leaves the Warriors without five key players this week, following earlier setbacks involving utility Dylan Walker (ankle), second-rower Kurt Capewell (concussion), and half Luke Metcalf (broken leg), with the collective NRL appearances of the sidelined quintet totaling 700.
With Watene-Zelezniak sidelined due to a hamstring injury, Adam Pompey transitions to the right wing, while Niukore’s absence due to a new foot injury sees Mitchell Barnett slotting into the second row and Bunty Afoa stepping up to start in the front row.
Joining the interchange is utility Chanel Harris-Tavita, while back-rower Jacob Laban assumes the role of the 18th man, with center Ali Leiataua named as the 19th man.
Additionally, apart from Watene-Zelezniak and Niukore, winger Edward Kosi has been omitted from the squad 24 hours before the match.
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