Blake Austin has not been included in Warrington’s 19-man squad for the Challenge Cup Final.
Head coach Steve Price said the Wolves would give their star half-back every chance to be fit for Wembley.
However, it appears Austin has lost his race against time with the 28-year-old confirming on Instagram he won’t feature in Saturday’s game.
The former Canberra playmaker injured his ankle against Catalans at the start of the month and has not featured for the Wire since.
Matty Smith has been drafted in on loan but is not eligible for the game having missed the registration deadline to play at Wembley.
In Austin’s absence, Warrington’s form has suffered dramatically and they head to the Cup Final some 16 points behind their opponents St Helens in Super League.
In more positive news for the Wolves, Josh Charnley and Jack Hughes return to the squad after overcoming injuries.
As expected, all Saints senior players return to the squad ahead of the blockbuster final.
James Roby Alex Walmsley, Lachlan Coote, Joseph Paulo, Louie McCarthy-Scarsbrook and Morgan Knowles all feature after missing last week’s game against Leeds.
