Brisbane Broncos fans would be forgiven for holding a few concerns after Pat Carrigan was spotted at the second Ashes Test between Australia and England at the Gabba on Saturday with an extra addition – a cast on his left wrist. Carrigan had a monster year in the NRL and rep footy arena, winning the premiership with the Broncos, the State of Origin series for Queensland and Ashes series with the Kangaroos.
It was a gruelling and tiresome year for the star forward, and it appears to have taken some toll. Carrigan had strapping on his left wrist late in the NRL season with the Broncos, as well as during the Ashes in England.
Pat Carrigan had a brace on his wrist during the second Ashes Test at the Gabba. Image: Fox Sports/NRL Physio
On Saturday at the Gabba he was sporting a brace on the wrist to suggest he’s undergone some sort of surgical procedure. Carrigan was giving nothing away as to what the ailment is, or the surgery he’s had.
Pat Carrigan had strapping on his left wrist late in the year. Image: Getty
There’s been no official word from the Broncos either, and Yahoo Sport Australia has contacted the club for comment. ‘NRL Physio’ Brien Seeney posted a photo of Carrigan in the cast and wrote: “This type of brace would often indicate a thumb or wrist (eg scaphoid) injury/surgery. While there’s no official word these situations are common in the offseason.”
Broncos star in no danger of missing 2026 start
As Seeney mentioned, plenty of players use the off-season to get surgery done. There’s no suggestion at this stage he’ll miss any games in 2026, but it might limit his pre-season somewhat after the Christmas break.
Seeney said it will most likely have a recovery period of 6–12 weeks. “Even with the likelihood of recent surgery, he should be fully cleared for Round 1 2026,” he added.
The only headache might come in the shape of the World Club Challenge. The Broncos will take on Hull KR on February 19 in the UK, which is about 10 weeks away. If Carrigan’s recovery is closer to the 8-12 week range, it’s unlikely the Broncos would play him in the showpiece event against the Super League champions.
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Pat Carrigan excited for World Club Challenge
Speaking to Fox Sports on Saturday night, Carrigan said he’s “excited” for the game. “I’ve just got back from England (for the Ashes), I’ve got a taste of the Poms,” he said. “It’ll be good to get over there and get stuck into them.”
When asked if he rated the premiership or Ashes triumph higher, he said: “That premiership means a lot. There’s obviously been a few tough years at the ‘Broncs’, especially for the fans who’ve had a few near misses. To bring them a trophy is pretty special.”