Raiders star Josh Papalii will miss Game 2 of the State of Origin series after being ruled out for 3-4 weeks with an ankle syndesmosis injury he sustained in last night’s loss to the Brisbane Broncos at GIO Stadium Canberra.
Papalii performed strongly for Queensland in the opening match of the series and as such was selected in the Maroons 22-man squad for Game 2, alongside team mate and close friend Anthony Milford.
“I’ve got a few mixed emotions at the moment,” Papalii said after the Raiders’ 28-4 loss to the Broncos.
“First and foremost right now I’m disappointed that we have just lost to the Broncos. To see the fans turn up and brave the cold to cheer us on and for us to perform the way we did makes the loss hurt all that more.
“It’s also disappointing to have injured my ankle. It means I won’t be able to get out there and help the Raiders or the Maroons. It’s a must-win game for us in Game 2 and it’s upsetting that I won’t be able to be out there doing my best for my state.
“I’m over the moon for Tony though. I know he’s dreamt about playing for Queensland in State of Origin since he was a kid.
"He's worked hard to get where he is and I'm so proud of him. It would have been amazing to be able to play with him if he ends up being selected but hopefully that day comes someday soon.”
Papalii will aim to make his return for the Raiders in Round 18 against the Gold Coast Titans at Cbus Stadium.
