Sydney Roosters captain Boyd Cordner will be rested by head coach Trent Robinson for Saturday’s World Club Challenge against St Helens.
It is believed that the Australian premiers want the 27-year-old at full fitness for the start of the NRL season in less than a month.
Cordner has been an ever-present for the Roosters, New South Wales and Australia for several years and the Tri-Colours are taking precaution on their skipper due to the heavy workload.
“It’s really hard to miss a game like the World Club Challenge but it’s been a big few years” Cordner told News Corp.
“Long term, we think this is the best way to go. We’re looking at the bigger picture. I’ll be fresh mentally and physically for round one.”
It is expected that Cordner will be replaced by Sitili Tupouniua, with Angus Crichton playing outside him at left centre, replacing the departed Latrell Mitchell.
The Roosters are looking to win back-to-back World Club Challenge titles after they defeated Wigan 20-8 at the DW Stadium last season.
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