The Parramatta Eels have been hit with a double injury blow, ruling out back Sean Russell and forward Sam Tuivaiti ahead of this weekend’s clash with the North Queensland Cowboys.
Both players featured in last week’s match against the Melbourne Storm, but scans confirmed setbacks that will force changes to Jason Ryles’ line-up. Russell suffered a fractured hand during the first half yet battled through to full-time.
He has been replaced by ex-Bulldog Jordan Samrani and is expected to miss four to six weeks. With just five rounds remaining, the injury effectively ends his season, though there remains a slim chance he could return for the closing matches.
Tuivaiti’s campaign, however, is officially over. The bench forward sustained a Grade 2 medial ligament injury in his right knee, sidelining him for eight to ten weeks. While that rules him out of 2025, the recovery window ensures he will be available for the start of pre-season — a crucial one for the Eels as they aim to rebound from a disappointing year. His spot on the bench has been filled by a fit-again Kelma Tuilagi.
Tuivaiti has made 11 appearances this season, scoring once in Round 7 against the Wests Tigers and averaging close to 70 running metres per game. Russell, meanwhile, has crossed for five tries in 18 matches.
The pair join Isaiah Iongi and Kitione Kautoga on Parramatta’s casualty list, though both are tipped to return before the season concludes.
