New South Wales' State of Origin hopes have been dealt another blow with incumbent Blues hooker Api Koroisau taken to hospital after suffering a broken jaw.
Koroisau was forced off the field in the first half of Wests Tigers' clash with the Gold Coast Titans when he was taken high by Titans and Maroons forward Tino Fa'asuamaleaui, who could be in hot water after being reported.
"You can see how distraught he is there, Api," said NSW assistant coach Andrew Johns on Nine's coverage as Koroisau left Cbus Super Stadium.
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If Koroisau isn't available for game two of the Origin series, which the Blues must win to keep the series alive on June 21, he will likely be replaced by Rabbitohs hooker Damien Cook.
Blues coach Brad Fittler was also commentating on Nine's broadcast and admitted he was "worried" for his incumbent No.9.
"The fact he's in an ambulance on the way to hospital doesn't send a good message," Fittler said.
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"So, I wish Api all the best, and hopefully it's not as bad as first thought or everyone thinks. Not good.
"I'm not worried about depth at the moment. I'll worry about Api for now and we'll worry about that later."
Koroisau made his Origin debut for Fittler's Blues in 2021 and has made four appearances, scoring two tries.
If the Tigers captain is ruled unavailable for game two, Rabbitohs hooker Damien Cook will almost certainly replace him.
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Cowboys rake Reece Robson will be another option for Fittler if Koroisau can't play.
Queensland legend Darren Lockyer admitted Fa'asuamaleaui faced a precarious ruling after he raised his arms and connected with Koroisau's head while running the footy.
"It's a nervous wait," Lockyer said on the Nine broadcsat.
"If Api comes out of that tackle with no injury, I think he might get away with a fine. But unfortunately because of the injury to Api it's a nervous wait for Tino.
"So I guess it's over to the judiciary from here."
The Titans beat the Tigers 28-12.
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