Warriors hooker Nathaniel Roache will miss the entire 2018 season with surgery required to fix a lumbar disc injury scheduled for next week.
Roache played nine games last season and was expected to be an important member of the squad this season.
"It’s really sad for Nate and we’re all feeling for him," said head coach Stephen Kearney.
"He’s a wonderful young man with a terrific attitude despite the adversity he has faced in his career.
"He made an excellent recovery from his Achilles surgery only for this to happen. We wish him all the best for his surgery and we’re confident he’ll come back better than ever."
The Warriors announced the signing Gold Coast Titans utility Karl Lawtown yesterday, with Lawton able to cover a number of positions including hooker.
