St Helens have shared an injury update on captain Matty Lees after the forward limped off following the first tackle of Saturday’s Challenge Cup loss to Wigan Warriors.
Lees was part of a three-man committee tasked with making the first tackle of the game but the England prop spun off awkwardly and lay prone holding his knee.
After being helped from the field, Lees played no further part in the game and initial scans by St Helens have confirmed that their captain will require surgery.
It’s the second major injury that Lees has suffered this season having previously injured his knee in the Challenge Cup win against Workington, one week before the Super League season started.
Worryingly, Saints’ update confirmed that because of the fact Lees is to undergo surgery, his season could well be over, dependent on his recovery time.
The club statement announced: “St Helens RFC can confirm that First Team captain Matty Lees has sadly suffered a knee injury, which will require surgery.
“The England international prop forward suffered a freakish collision in the first tackle of the Betfred Challenge Cup Semi-Final against Wigan Warriors this past weekend. Our tough-as-nails #10 sadly stayed down after the impact and needed to come off the field.
“Scans conducted over the weekend have confirmed that surgery would be needed, and it does unfortunately look likely that Lees will play no further part in the Saints’ 2026 season. However, following the surgery, it is expected that Lees will make a full recovery.”
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St Helens star reacts to news of potential season-ending injury
Lees will undergo surgery today (Tuesday, 12th May) and begin his rehab in the coming days and weeks.
Reacting to the news, Lees said: “I’m gutted about this news. This is not how I wanted my Testimonial year, and my first as captain, to play out. I know it’s one of those things in sport, having to deal with injuries, and it can’t be avoided, but I’m truly gutted.
“I know that it means I’ll be out of action for a bit, but I’ll do my hardest to try to get back playing for Saints as soon as I possibly can.”
🗞️ St.Helens R.F.C. can confirm that First Team captain Matty Lees has sadly suffered a knee injury, which will require surgery.
Rest up, Skipper. We’re with you. ♥️#COYS
— St.Helens R.F.C. (@Saints1890) May 11, 2026
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