Maxigesic Recovery Report: DWZ, Niukore injured

Dally M winger of the year Dallin Watene-Zelezniak and second rower-prop Marata Niukore have joined the One New Zealand Warriors’ injury list.

Both players have been ruled out of tomorrow’s fifth-round clash against South Sydney after being named on Tuesday.

Watene-Zelezniak experienced hamstring tightness during last Sunday’s 20-12 win over the Knights. With a shortened turnaround plus travel to contend with a decision has been made not to risk him this week; he’s expected to be available for tomorrow week’s sixth-round home game against Manly Warringah.

Niukore, who had his first outing of the season last week after recovering from a minor foot fracture, picked up a new foot injury at training this week which is set to keep him out of action for an extended period. It’s anticipated he’ll be able to return for the round 14 match against the Cowboys on June 8.

Added to the injury list earlier in the week were utility Dylan Walker, second rower Kurt Capewell and half Luke Metcalf.

Walker has been troubled by an ankle injury which flared up in the second-round match against Melbourne.

He was named for the last two matches against Canberra and Newcastle but was left out of the squad to face South Sydney. His return date is to be confirmed.

Capewell is standing down this week adhering to the NRL’s concussion protocols after experiencing headaches in the aftermath of last Sunday's win over the Knights.

Metcalf has undergone surgery after breaking the tibia in his right leg following a tackle by Newcastle’s Tyson Frizzell. He is expected to return late in the season.