Titans luckless back-rower Ben Ridge will have surgery on his left pectoral muscle tomorrow morning after a specialist today confirmed he had torn the muscle in the first quarter of Saturday night’s trial match against the Warriors in Toowoomba.
The injury, similar to that which sidelined five-eighth Aidan Sezer last season, will see Ridge out of action for 12-16 weeks, which means he could return any time after round eight of the NRL season.
The 25-year-old from Roma was understandably devastated that his season has begun this way but he is determined to work hard on the rehabilitation and make a contribution when he returns.
“It’s pretty hard to swallow, not just after the run of injuries I’ve had but after such a tough pre-season we’ve had to endure and getting myself in the best shape I’ve probably been in,” said Ridge.
“But there’s nothing I can do about it but work hard on my rehab and get back as soon as I can.
“I’d never felt keener going into a season, having so much enthusiasm around the place with new teammates who I was looking forward to playing with, as well as good mates who have been at the Titans for a while.
“It was pretty tough happening so early in the match, especially with my parents [who live in Roma], other family and friends at the game. I just hyper-extended my arm making a tackle and it went.
“I just have to knuckle down again and work hard until I’m right to play.”
For a full update of the Titans' injuries, click below and see what physio Greg Condon has to say.
