Newcastle Knights’ Emma Paki ruptures ACL in NRLW grand final, faces six to nine-month recovery
Queensland rugby league sensation Emma Paki is preparing for surgery after suffering an injury in the Newcastle Knights’ grand final win. It comes after what was a stellar year for the 19-year-old.
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A prized NRLW title has come at a cost for Rockhampton’s Emma Paki.
The 19-year-old will learn on Thursday when she will undergo surgery after rupturing her ACL during the Newcastle Knights’ grand final win over the Parramatta Eels on October 2.
The talented centre turned winger scored the Knights’ second try in the decider but suffered the injury in the closing stages and had to be helped from the ground.
It’s a bitter blow for Paki, who only made the move to Newcastle mid-year after another strong showing with the CQ Capras, who finished runners-up in the QRL’s BMD Premiership.
She made her NRLW debut in Round 4, scored her first try in Round 5 and was then part of the Knights’ line-up for the semi-final and grand final.
Paki revealed she got some valuable tips before the big game from teammate and fellow Rockhampton product Tamika Upton, who had already won two NRLW premierships with the Brisbane Broncos and claimed number three with the Knights.
Fullback Upton starred for the premiers, scoring a try and running for 181m to claim the Karyn Murphy Medal as Player of the Match.
Paki said it was “amazing” to cross for a four-pointer in the biggest game of her young career.
But elation later turned to agony when she was left writhing in pain on the ground in the 55th minute.
“I felt a pop and I was in pain, it was constant pain,” she said.
“She (the team physio) did the ACL test and that’s when I saw in her face that there was something wrong.
“It’s devastating... but that’s football and that’s life.
“Now I just want to focus on my recovery and rehab and see where that leaves me.”
Paki said she would find out at a doctor’s appointment on Thursday when she will have the reconstruction done and is preparing for a six to nine-month recovery period.
She is determined to stay positive, and is taking plenty from what has been an incredible 2022.
“It’s been a pretty good season and I’ve loved every second of it,” she said.
“Obviously, to play in two grand finals in one year is a dream come true.”
Paki admits she never imagined getting a start in the NRLW this year, let alone be featuring in the grand final.
“Honestly, I went to Newcastle thinking that I’d be learning off the likes of Millie (Boyle), Romi (Teitzel) and obviously Tamika.
“I didn’t expect any starting role so when I got named for my debut it was a shock to me but I was so grateful.
“The grand final, well that just tops it all.
“My family was there and it was unbelievable running out and hearing the crowd.
“There’s nothing like it.”
Paki said the grounding she received in the game in Central Queensland had been integral to her success.
“That’s where I started playing in school,” she said.
“Rocky’s always been a good part of my football life and the Yeppoon Seagulls and the Capras have really helped me get to where I am now, which I’ll always be grateful for.”
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Originally published as Newcastle Knights’ Emma Paki ruptures ACL in NRLW grand final, faces six to nine-month recovery
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