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10 NRL players looking for redemption in 2017

RUGBY league is full of comeback stories. Whether it be someone chasing redemption or trying to rebuild their career, here are the top 10 comebacks for 2017.

Eels Kieran Foran during the Parramatta Eels v Melbourne Storm NRL round 11 game at Pirtek Stadium., Penrith. Pic Jenny Evans
Eels Kieran Foran during the Parramatta Eels v Melbourne Storm NRL round 11 game at Pirtek Stadium., Penrith. Pic Jenny Evans

RUGBY league is full of comeback stories.

Whether it be someone chasing redemption or trying to rebuild their career after a season injury, take a look at the top 10 comebacks to watch in 2017.

Kieran Foran

No one fell as low as Foran in 2016. Aiming to not only rebuild his career but his life in New Zealand. Still needs clearance from the NRL to resume playing, which is unlikely to happen in time for round one.


Paul Carter

Another troubled star who has been sacked from the Titans and South Sydney in recent years. Now on his last chance. Has great potential and will serve as a strong backup to Jake Friend, as well as a reliable back-rower.

Carter was sacked by the Rabbitohs near the end of the season.
Carter was sacked by the Rabbitohs near the end of the season.

Jamal Idris

It is hard to believe Idris made his NSW debut six years ago and his Test debut a year later. Took a year sabbatical away from the game to help find himself and rediscover his love for it. Will add some much needed size to a Tigers backline.

Kane Elgey

Luckless halfback, whose season ended on the first day of pre-season with a knee injury. Was rookie of the year in 2015 and will need to rediscover that form to find to regain his place in a Titans side ahead of Tyrone Roberts and Ash Taylor.

Billy Slater

At 33 you would forgive Slater for not having the drive to recapture his best after injury restricted him to just eight games in two years. Another setback will end his career, but Slater remains as determined as ever.

Whare managed just one match in 2016.
Whare managed just one match in 2016.

Dean Whare

Played just one game before needing a knee reconstruction. 2017 looms as a key season with Whare off-contract at season’s end.

Peta Hiku

Another season ending knee injury. Hiku’s first year at the Panthers lasted just 11 games. Penrith missed his try-scoring ability and versatility.

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Mose Masoe

The hulking prop’s career hangs in the balance after missing the entire 2016 season with a pre-season knee injury in his first year at St George Illawarra. Had to have another operation during pre-season which again threatens his start to the season.

Roger Tuivasa-Sheck

Warriors fans only got to see glimpses of arguably their best ever signing. A season-ending knee injury meant he played just seven games, and it remains to be seen if the serious injury hampers his trademark speed and footwork.

Ballin has had back to back knee reconstructions.
Ballin has had back to back knee reconstructions.

Matt Ballin

Has had consecutive seasons ended by knee reconstructions. At 32, time is not on his side as he looms as the replacement for Robbie Farah but is battling to be fit for round one. Played just two games in his switch to the Tigers.

Originally published as 10 NRL players looking for redemption in 2017

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Original URL: https://www.adelaidenow.com.au/sport/nrl/teams/10-nrl-players-looking-for-redemption-in-2017/news-story/dd45395c32587a04b67faeee168c2279