James Roberts’ ankle injury hurts hopes of NSW State of Origin debut

INJURED Broncos flyer James Roberts is set to be sidelined for up to four weeks, opening the door for David Mead to clinch a starting jersey.

James Roberts is carried off during the Broncos win over the Panthers. Picture: Darren England

INJURED flyer James Roberts is set to be sidelined for up to four weeks, opening the door for David Mead to clinch a starting jersey.

Brisbane on Friday confirmed that their star centre had suffered ligament damage in his ankle, following an accidental collision with teammate Matt Gillett in Thursday’s win over the Panthers at Suncorp Stadium.

While the news is better than expected after Brisbane thought he had fractured the ankle, it is still a blow for Roberts.

Given his recent red hot form, the Kempsey-born speedster was firming for a NSW Origin debut.

However, the injury will likely keep him out of the side for Game One, with coach Laurie Daley to name his team in the same week Roberts is due back for Brisbane.

James Roberts is carried off during the Broncos win over the Panthers. Picture: Darren England

NSW City coach Brad Fittler also revealed on Friday that prior to the injury, he was going to name Roberts for next Sunday’s clash against the Country side.

The Broncos will now have a week off from club duties for the representative round, giving coach Wayne Bennett plenty of time to pick a suitable replacement.

Versatile back Mead is the most obvious option, but Redcliffe duo Jonus Pearson and Tom Opacic will also be pressing for a recall to the first grade side.

If Mead comes into the starting team, Pearson or Opacic could come onto the bench, with Bennett opting to carry a back as part of his interchange in recent weeks.

David Mead is in the frame for a starting spot. Picture: Darren England

The pair will both play for the Dolphins this Sunday before representing the Queensland Residents next week.

Mead is expected to play for PNG in their clash against the Cook Islands next Saturday.

Bennett said after his side’s win on Thursday night that whoever came into the side for Roberts would have no problem filling in for the 24-year-old sensation.

“We lost Ben Hunt (hamstring) and nobody blinks an eye because we’re a confident footy team,” Bennett said.

“That’s the way we make them at the Broncos. If we lose James for a while we’ll get someone in there and get the job done.”.