Paramatta Eels hooker Kaysa Pritchard will take leave from the club as he weighs up his playing future.
The 24-year old was held to just eight games last season, with groin and shoulder injuries taking their toll and the club has revealed that Pritchard is still suffering some "residual impact" from the injury.
The club has granted Pritchard's request for indefinite leave, with the club doing everything they can to support his health and well-being.
The Eels revealed the news on Wednesday via the club website.
Read the full statement below:
Last season Kaysa Pritchard suffered a serious injury and while he was able return to preseason training in October 2018, he continues to deal with some residual impact from that injury.
As a result, the Club has granted Kaysa’s request for some time away from the game to assess his immediate playing future.
Parramatta Eels General Manager of Football, Mark O’Neill, said the Club was doing everything possible to support Kaysa through this time.
“Our first priority is looking after Kaysa’s health and well-being,” O’Neill said.
“Kaysa has been open with the Club about the impact from the injury he suffered and while we consider it a private medical matter, he is aware that he has our full support."
“We request that Kaysa’s privacy is respected at this difficult time."
Kaysa and the Club will not be commenting further at this time.
With Kaysa unavailable and Bully probably staying in NZ, parra look to keep their ongoing hooker issue.
Have to feel for him.Very injury prone but nobody can say he didnt give 110%.Must been hard on him hearing Parra been chasing Luke while he trying to get his head around his injury plus his own demons.Now Luke looks his staying at Warriors i hope Parra leave looking at Hookers for now (unless its in there own time and they dont have a partner but thats another story).Parra need a few more forwards as doesnt matter who wears the 9 with no go forward your up shyt creek anyway.Id like to see Parra start with Mahoney and give French ago for now coming on late in the half.Long shot but they have nothing to lose.
Bring back Nathan Peats. The club has’t been the same since we let him go. He plays with spirit, talent and max effort and would be a good foil for reed mahoney.