The Sydney Roosters have confirmed that forward Egan Butcher has suffered a complete ACL rupture.
This injury will sideline Butcher for the rest of the season, with an expected recovery period of nine to twelve months. As a result, Butcher is unlikely to resume training before Christmas and will be in a race to be fit for the opening round of the 2025 NRL season, where he remains contracted with the Roosters.
The injury occurred during the Roosters’ Round 12 victory over the Canberra Raiders. Butcher, who came off the bench, only played for 12 minutes before being forced out of the game.
Butcher has made eight appearances for the Roosters this year, bringing his career total to 56 games. Despite limited minutes, he has still made a significant impact for the team.
With Butcher out for the season, coach Trent Robinson will need to find a replacement in the second row. Sitili Tupouniua, returning soon from a concussion, and Siua Wong, who has been on the fringes of the best 17, are potential candidates.
Robinson faces a quick decision on Butcher’s replacement, as the Roosters are set to face the North Queensland Cowboys in Round 13 before a bye in Round 14.
Additionally, the Roosters will need to find other forward replacements this week, as Lindsay Collins and Spencer Leniu have been selected for their respective states in Game 1 of the Origin series. Terrell May is likely to start, with another spot opening up on the bench.
