Parramatta backrower Kitione Kautoga is on track for a shock late-season return, with the club listing him for a possible Round 27 comeback despite initial fears his debut campaign was finished.
The 22-year-old suffered an ankle syndesmosis injury during last weekend’s clash with Penrith after a hip-drop tackle from Panthers centre Izack Tago, a challenge that drew heavy criticism from fans and pundits for earning only a one-match suspension.
The Eels later confirmed Kautoga required surgery, with an expected recovery time of six to eight weeks, leading many to believe he would not feature again in 2025.
MORE: Payne Haas makes call on Kangaroos future
From season-ending fears to a glimmer of hope
In their latest injury update, Parramatta named Round 27 as Kautoga’s potential return date, raising the prospect of him making one final appearance before the season closes.
It marks a remarkable turnaround after head coach Jason Ryles admitted frustration over the incident, particularly as the tackle wasn’t penalised on-field.
"We've had a couple of syndesmosis injuries this year, so our performance team's had a bit of practice on rehabbing them," Ryles said following the match.
The timing means Kautoga could be available for the Eels’ final regular-season fixture, offering a welcome boost after a campaign that had promised so much for the breakout forward before being cruelled by injury.