The Warriors will start the NRL season without one of their key front-rowers.
Ben Matulino requires surgery on a troublesome left knee and is due to for an operation in the coming days.
This follows an issue with the 28-year-old's right knee back in September which saw him miss the Kiwis' Four Nations campaign in England.
"Unfortunately, Ben injured his left knee at training and it was determined that surgical management would provide the best outcome for him at this stage of the season,” said Warriors head of athletic performance Balin Cupples.
"It is expected he will return to play early in the 2017 season."
The news is a blow to new coach Stephen Kearney’s plans for the season ahead but he said it was important for Matulino to get the right treatment.
"It's disappointing but we are taking a long-term view here," he said.
"It makes sense to get the knee sorted now. Naturally, Ben's disappointed but he’ll work hard on his rehab and will undoubtedly be a wonderful addition to the team once he's recovered."
Newshub.
