The Australian Kangaroos have suffered another blow ahead of this year’s Ashes, with Tom Trbojevic confirming he won’t be available for selection.
The Manly Sea Eagles fullback has been managing a persistent knee problem and has now withdrawn his name from contention, despite strong hopes of representing Australia in 2025.
MORE: Jahrome Hughes plots record NRL fracture return
According to The Daily Telegraph, the 2021 Dally M medallist personally contacted Kangaroos coach Kevin Walters to break the news.
Extended rest over surgery
Trbojevic’s injury is not expected to require surgery, but it does demand a significant rest period to ensure full recovery. The 27-year-old has already missed large chunks of Manly’s campaign this year and has shifted his focus towards building a full preseason for the Sea Eagles in the lead-up to 2026.
MORE: Storm roll out secret weapon ahead of Burton bombing raid
While the decision has been a reluctant one, Trbojevic is determined to return to his best at club level before chasing international honours again. His absence adds to a growing list of unavailable Kangaroos, with several stars either sidelined by injury or pledging allegiance to other nations.
For Manly, the hope will be that their marquee fullback’s conservative approach now pays dividends when the new season begins, both for his body and their finals ambitions.