Injury and Suspension update 2026

Dragon David

SGI NSW Cup
A bit more on Liddle.

St George Illawarra Dragons hooker Jacob Liddle's hamstring recovery has been delayed due to the high re-injury risk associated with soft-tissue tears. After suffering a setback during the pre-season, he experienced a minor warm-up incident, forcing his return to be pushed back to Round 12 or 13.

Current Injury Status and Timeline
  • The Setback: Liddle suffered a significant pre-season grade 3 hamstring tear and later dealt with an aggravating warm-up incident just before kickoff.
  • Revised Return: The Dragons medical and coaching staff confirmed his recovery has been taking slightly longer than initially hoped, targeting a comeback to the field in Round 12 or 13.
  • Team Impact: Because of Liddle's delayed availability, the club is leaning on Damien Cook and Haele Finau to manage the dummy-half role in the interim.

Why Hamstring Repairs Take Time
  • High Re-injury Rates: Hamstring strains are notorious in the NRL, carrying a roughly 30% re-injury rate if rushed.
  • Stringent Rehab: To avoid a chronic issue, medical staff mandate a deliberate, graduated increase in running volume and strength before clearing a player for full contact
 
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