Christian Welch’s injury could launch Tino Fa’asuamaleaui into NRL contention

Christian Welch has taken to social media to reveal his heartbreaking knee injury was far less severe than first thought, but it may just have opened the door for NRL’s next big thing.

Tino Fa'asuamaleaui scores during the Under 18's Origin game between Queensland and NSW at the MCG in Melbourne. Pics Adam Head

Christian Welch’s second knee injury in three years was heartbreaking for player and coach alike but it may just have opened the door for a future star’s debut.

The 24-year-old prop seemed destined to play Origin for Queensland this year before a meniscus tear cut him down during Melbourne’s 24-22 win over West Tigers.

The injury was initially feared to be a devastating ACL injury, but Welch took to social media on Friday to reveal the misdiagnosis.

After crying my eyes out all night I’ve just had the most amazing news. Misdiagnosed ACL tear only meniscus damage so will be back 4-6. In disbelief, just bought about 12 lotto tickets! Thanks to my friends, family and footy community for the support ❤️❤️ pic.twitter.com/PSfhxXFwTU

— Christian Welch (@clwelch94) May 17, 2019

While the 4-6 week injury will likely cruel his Origin hopes, it would give him an outside chance at being selected for Game II and III.

A visibly shaken Storm coach Craig Bellamy said after the game he was “pretty sure” Welch would not return this season, but news of the meniscus tear means the enforcer could return within a month.

“It’s really disappointing. Obviously he’s an important part of our team, has been playing really well and was in line to play Origin, so the whole team and staff are really feeling for him,” Bellamy said.

Tino Fa'asuamaleaui carries the ball during a Melbourne Storm trial game against NZ Warriors in February. Picture: Darrian Traynor

Welch averaged 117 run metres and 23 tackles before Round 10 and will leaving a gaping hole in the Storm pack.

“At the end of the day, he’s going to be really hard to replace,” Bellamy said.

“He’s been a really important part of our team now for two or three years and each year he gets a little better.

“He’s a really hard worker, gets on really well with all the players … so it’s from ideal.”

However, Welch’s misfortune could be another’s chance with rising teenager Tino Fa’asuamaleaui now in the frame for a match day call-up.

Fa'asuamaleaui is congratulated by teammates after scoring for Queensland under 18s against NSW in 2018. Picture: Adam Head

The Courier-Mail understands the 19-year-old is so highly regarded by Bellamy that the Storm are attempting to upgrade him to a new deal this year.

It’s unsurprising given Fa’asuamaleaui’s recent form.

The 107kg dynamo racked up 141 metres in a 45-minute blitz for Queensland Residents last weekend and has been among Sunshine Coast’s most damaging ball runners in their 9-0 start.

Falcons coach Eric Smith believes an NRL debut won’t be far away.

“He’s been playing good footy against seasoned NRL players,” Smith said.

“I can only imagine what he will do once he has made his debut.”