Max Jorgensen’s promising but injury-plagued career as a young player for the NSW Waratahs has encountered yet another setback. On Friday in Wellington, Jorgensen appeared to sustain a serious leg injury during a tackle by Hurricanes flanker Brayden Iose in the early moments of the first half. His immediate reaction was one of distress; he cried out in pain and struck the ground at Sky Stadium before being substituted.
Commentators noted the visible anguish on Jorgensen’s face, highlighting the seriousness of the situation. As the fullback was unable to continue, play unfolded unfavourably for the Waratahs, who had initially scored first through Lawson Creighton. The match quickly turned for the worse, culminating in a staggering 57-12 defeat against the Hurricanes, with Kini Naholo of the Hurricanes scoring three tries.
The Waratahs have yet to provide an update on the severity of Jorgensen’s injury, which raises concerns not only for the team but also for the Wallabies. Coach Joe Schmidt is particularly anxious as Jorgensen is seen as an essential player in the upcoming British and Irish Lions series, with the first Test scheduled for July 19 in Brisbane.
Currently, the Hurricanes have improved their standing to sixth with a 3-3 record in the Super Rugby Pacific ladder, while the Waratahs sit fourth with a 4-2 record. As the situation unfolds, further updates on Jorgensen’s condition are anticipated.