The South Sydney Rabbitohs have undergone one of the most disastrous injury tolls in recent history, with head coach Wayne Bennett being forced into a selection nightmare in the back end of the season.
Cameron Murray's ruptured Achilles kicked off the injury-plagued season for the Bunnies, and with their season effectively over six weeks out from finals, the skipper would be forgiven for turning his attention to 2026.
Murray has no such plans, and neither does his coach.
With the NSW Blues star ramping up his training load in recent weeks, it's been reported that he is itching to get back onto the field.
Bennett spoke to The Sydney Morning Herald, revealing his stance on whether Murray should return or not.
"If it's important for Cam to play a couple of games at the end of the season, he can do that. I won't spoil it for him," the legendary coach said.
"There is a chance he'll play before the season finishes."
Bennett went on to commend Murray for his work ethic throughout his entire rehabilitation process, expressing his respect and trust in his skipper to make the right call.
"He's done a remarkable job with his recovery... I'll do what he wants to do."
While Bennett gave the star lock the green light should he wish to return, he admitted the final call is out of his hands.
"I'm not pushing or prodding him to come back.
"He won't play if the medical staff aren't confident, but they are at the moment," he revealed.
Murray's return would open the door for an Australia call-up, with incoming Kangaroos coach Kevin Walters looking to get off to a solid start in this year's Ashes.
Sounds as if Mr. Murray wants to do what’s best for Mr. Murry, not what’s best for the club.
The club has stood by him, paid his wages and provided support. It will be in the club’s best interest (given that there is no chance of a finals berth) for him to take it slow and easy, and work gradually up to full fitness, ready for 2026 Pre-Season.
But it sounds like he wants to get a spot in the Test squad, with the prestige and money that will provide.
Bunnies have contracted him for $1M per season for the next three seasons, and they should have the right to say “No – we don’t want you to do anything for the next three-four months.”