Earlier this week, it was reported that Newcastle Knights were “not very happy” with Wigan Warriors due to the medical tests performed on Kai Pearce-Paul.
The England international had arrived at the club with a toe injury which these reports suggested could require surgery. The Knights were allegedly unhappy with Wigan as he had been managing the injury whilst playing for the Cherry and Whites. Instead of dealing with the injury, he played on painkillers and has now arrived in Australia with the injury.
After these reports surfaced on Monday, the club have issued an official statement in which they subtly blame Wigan for the second-row / centre needing surgery.
This means Pearce-Paul will likely miss pre-season which granted is an important step in his development in the NRL being his first pre-season down under. But it is a fair trade off, one he would likely make again if given the same options as he was able to play in a victorious Grand Final by managing the injury.
The Knights made sure to include the line: “Pearce-Paul has been managing his injury for over 12 months at his previous club,” in a clear but subtle jab at the Super League Champions.
The official statement reads: “Scans have confirmed nib Newcastle Knights new signing Kai Pearce-Paul has a toe injury which will require surgery this week.
“Pearce-Paul has been managing this injury for over 12 months at his previous club.
“Upon reviews conducted by the Knights medical and performance team, it was decided surgery was the best course of action to provide long term health and performance outcomes.
“The Knights forward will commence his return to play program, with the goal being selection in the early rounds of the 2024 National Rugby League season.
“Pearce-Paul is due to commence official training and club commitments on Thursday, 23 November.”
The London born England international is joined down under at Newcastle by Huddersfield Giants star Will Pryce who has also made the move. It is interesting that there have been no complaints about his injuries given he also pulled out of the England test series against Tonga due to injury.
