Cody Walker Hits with New Injury Setback as Rabbitohs Fall to Raiders in Josh Papalii’s Landmark Match

Star South Sydney five-eighth Cody Walker faced another injury setback during the Rabbitohs’ heavy loss to the Raiders on Sunday, aggravating his groin in his return from a five-match absence.

Walker hobbled off with a groin complaint in the 57th minute of the encounter in Canberra, which ended with the hosts claiming a 36-12 victory. This match marked Josh Papalii’s 319th NRL game, making him the most capped Raider in history.

It was a memorable afternoon for Papalii and the Raiders’ supporters, as “Big Papa” powered over for two tries in the closing stages of the match.

“Cody Walker looked visibly upset as he stormed up the tunnel,” noted Fox League sideline reporter Eloise Sohier.

“He was calling for the doctors for around 60 seconds before he made his way off the field.”

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The home crowd was stunned early when Keaon Koloamatangi scored in just the fifth minute, charging over to give his side an early lead and enhance his chances for a State of Origin call-up.

Canberra’s woes compounded when rising star Savelio Tamale had to leave the field due to a knee injury in the 14th minute.

The promising winger, who has made a significant impact since joining the Raiders, landed awkwardly and was clearly in distress as medical staff escorted him off the pitch.

Souths opened the scoring with two quick tries by Koloamatangi and Alex Johnston, who is now just 11 tries shy of equalling Ken Irvine’s record for the most tries in the competition’s history.

However, the Raiders managed to stay in the game, trailing 12-6 at halftime after 20-year-old five-eighth Ethan Strange crossed for a try in the 38th minute.

In a dominant second half, Canberra overwhelmed Wayne Bennett’s men, scoring five tries while keeping the visiting Rabbitohs scoreless.