NRL 2019: NZ Warriors David Fusitu'a returns against Cronulla Sharks

  • 20/08/2019
Fusitu'a.
Fusitu'a. Photo credit: Getty

The Warriors will welcome back star wing David Fusitu'a for their clash with the Cronulla Sharks in Syndey on Saturday.

After missing the club's five games, Fusitu'a has overcome his hamstring injury to become one of three recallled players in coach Stephen Kearney's side for their must-win fixture at Shark Park.

Hooker Issac Luke is back from a three-game suspension, while Patrick Herbert has recovered from a hamstring issue of his own to claim a starting spot in the centres.

Promising rookie Herbert hasn't featured at NRL level for almost two months, out for five weeks until making a comeback via the reserve grade side over the past fortnight.

NRL 2019: NZ Warriors David Fusitu'a returns against Cronulla Sharks

He'll replace Gerard Beale, whose season is over after fracturing his kneecap during the 42-6 loss to the Sydney Roosters on Sunday.

Beale has undergone surgery and faces a 4-8 month rehabilitation timeframe.

Makeshift dummy half Jazz Tevaga reverts to his preferred role at loose forward and rookie Adam Pompey makes way for Fusitu’a.

Lachlan Burr replaces Ligi Sao on the interchange where he joins Bunty Afoa, Sam Lisone and Kodi Nikorima. Included on the extended bench are Pompey, Sao, Adam Keighran and Blake Ayshford.

With just three weeks of the regular season remaining, the Warriors sit 12th on the NRL ladder - three points adrift of the Sharks who are locked in a two-way tie for the eighth and final playoff spot.

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