The Canberra Raiders have been dealt a cruel blow with livewire fullback Xavier Savage ruled out for the rest of the season with a fractured shoulder.
But there is a silver lining ahead of Saturday’s home clash with the Wests Tigers: young winger Savelio Tamale has been passed fit and will make his long-awaited return from a knee injury.
Tamale last featured in Round 14 and has been working his way back to fitness since. His availability softens the impact of Savage’s absence and hands Ricky Stuart’s side a timely injection of pace out wide for their Round 26 meeting at GIO Stadium.
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Tamale back on the wing
The 20-year-old will slot straight onto the flank alongside centres Matthew Timoko and Sebastian Kris, with Jed Stuart holding the other wing. Kaeo Weekes takes over at fullback in place of Savage, while Jamal Fogarty and Ethan Strange steer the attack in the halves.
Up front, Josh Papalii and Joe Tapine anchor a familiar pack, with Hudson Young and Zac Hosking starting in the back row and Corey Horsburgh at lock. Tom Starling remains at hooker.
The Tigers arrive with a strike of their own in Jarome Luai and Jahream Bula, but the Raiders will look to lean on home support as they try to seal a strong finish to the regular season. Kick-off is at 3 pm in Canberra.