NRL: Wayne Bennett on Sam Burgess shoulder injury, retirement
His shoulder has been described as a “complete mess”, fuelling speculation Sam Burgess may have played his last game of NRL. And now the powerhouse lock’s South Sydney coach has weighed in on the injury drama.
Rabbitohs
Don't miss out on the headlines from Rabbitohs. Followed categories will be added to My News.
Wayne Bennett has played down suggestions Sam Burgess would be forced into an early retirement but said his star player’s shoulder “needs some work”.
It was revealed last week the 30-year-old was battling to play on because of degenerative shoulder issue caused by arthritis.
The injury hampered Burgess throughout this year and has left many believing he could call quits on his career despite being contracted until the end of 2023.
Live stream the inaugural Downer Rugby League World Cup 9’s Live & On-Demand on KAYO SPORTS. Get your 14 day free trial and start streaming instantly >
Burgess withdrew from England’s Nines squad and the Great Britain team last week coached by Bennett.
When asked if Burgess would play on next year Bennett quipped: “Yes.”
“It’s bad enough for him not to be here and play,” Bennett said.
“He needs some work done on it and we will see where it goes from there.
“He had time off last year. He didn’t play (Tests) last year. He had a long time off this year. I don’t think he needs any more rest. It’s not the issue. The issue is the arm needs the rest, not Sam personally. He just needs some surgery on it.”
MORE NRL NEWS
SUPPORT: NRL star ‘would never leave my mate’
TRANSFER: Tigers star targeting Parramatta switch
REVEALED: The blood that sparked Bali brawl
Burgess had minor shoulder surgery during the season but spent seven matches on the sideline because of an infection.
There were suggestions Burgess could opt to head to the US to try revolutionary surgery in a bid to repair the shoulder former rugby league hard man Mark Carroll described as a “complete mess”.
However, Bennett expected nothing out of the ordinary would be tested on his South Sydney skipper.
“I don’t think there is anything new to be tried,” Bennett said.
“It’s a matter of rehab, rest and a little bit more surgery.”
While Burgess will be missing from the tournament, Bennett has backed the world cup of nines. He has called for it to be formally introduced into the rugby league calendar and wants the game to grow the concept.
“It’s a great idea,” Bennett said.
“Hopefully they do it on a regular basis. It’s good for all the nations to be here and giving some young guys opportunities.
“We have a history of getting out of things too quick. Hopefully we will stay with it and it will add something to the rugby league calendar.
“If you’re a football player at the end of the season and you’ve had a good season you still want to keep playing. I don’t think (player burnout) is an issue.
“Players have allocated time off now. Players want to play internationals. You shouldn’t deny them that opportunity.”
Originally published as NRL: Wayne Bennett on Sam Burgess shoulder injury, retirement