Canberra Raiders’ Josh Hodgson given devastating news that could have World Cup implications
SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA - MARCH 21: Josh Hodgson of the Raiders passes the ball during the round two NRL match between the Cronulla Sharks and Canberra Raiders at Netstrata Jubilee Stadium on March 21, 2021 in Sydney, Australia. Photo by Speed Media/Icon Sportswire RUGBY: MAR 21 NRL Rd2 - Sharks v Raiders Icon210321012
England international Josh Hodgson has played his last game for Canberra Raiders.
The Raiders confirmed that Hodgson would have surgery on his knee this week and miss the remainder of the season, ending his time with the Green Machine prematurely.
Canberra club doctor Greg Macleod said further scans had been taken of the knee Hodgson injured in round one and now the hooker will head for surgery.
“Josh’s knee injury sustained in round one was a minor injury, however his return to training has since uncovered some instability in his knee which appears to have caused his current injury,” Macleod said.
“After further scans and diagnosis, the decision has been made that it’s the club’s duty of care to Josh for him to have an ACL reconstruction due to a partial tear in his ACL and associated injuries.
“Whilst the club and Josh were optimistic that the injury could be rehabbed without surgery, it is with much considered thought that surgery is the best option for Josh’s long-term health and rugby league career.”
Hodgson himself was devastated by the news.
“It’s certainly not the way I wanted to finish up at Canberra. After a disappointing year last year, it was probably the best I’ve felt this year in terms of my body, and I was feeling really fit and really fresh after a good pre-season with no internationals and no rehab,” Hodgson said.
“To do it in such a minor way and sustain such a big injury is really frustrating.
“I’ve really found a home away from home here in Canberra and I absolutely love the place. It means as much to me as my hometown club and I’ll be forever grateful to call myself Raider number #325.
“I’m gutted to go out like this, but I’ll be doing everything I can to support the boys before I leave at the end of the year.”
Hodgson has signed a two-year deal to join the Parramatta Eels from 2023.