The Sporting squad is heading north to Malmö this week, carrying a significant lead and a renewed sense of purpose. They hold a strong 3-0 advantage over

Penrith's three-time premiership-winning hooker Mitch Kenny faces a prolonged absence, with his return delayed until the NRL finals due to complications from a fractured fibula and syndesmosis injury. The Panthers' medical team has had to adjust his rehab program repeatedly, and coach Ivan Cleary admits Kenny remains a week-to-week proposition. Backup No.9 Freddy Lussick has stepped in admirably for the table-topping side, but Kenny's absence is a significant setback for Penrith's bid to secure a fifth premiership in six seasons. Fullback Dylan Edwards also faces uncertainty, with his shoulder injury potentially sidelining him for Friday's clash against the Warriors. Edwards, who recently underwent a Latarjet procedure, needs to regain 90% shoulder strength before returning. Meanwhile, other teams like Manly and the Roosters are managing their own injury challenges, highlighting the competitive nature of the NRL 2026 season. The article underscores the physical toll on players and the strategic adjustments coaches must make to navigate the finals race.

Tottenham Hotspur faces a challenging start to the new Premier League season due to a lengthy list of injuries. Head coach Roberto De Zerbi must navigate multiple absences, including key players like Xavi Simons, who tore his ACL in April and is expected back only by January 2027. Mohammed Kudus, recovering from a quad tendon injury, may return as early as August 26 against Charlton. Dominic Solanke, plagued by recurring ankle issues, has played just two pre-season matches and aims to stay fit for the new campaign. Other sidelined players include Dejan Kulusevski (patella injury), Micky van de Ven (fitness concerns after World Cup duty), and Destiny Udogie (minor niggle). While some players like Mathys Tel and Mikey Moore have made appearances in pre-season games, others such as Sandro Tonali and Jan Paul van Hecke remain unscathed. De Zerbi has expressed cautious optimism about Kudus' progress but emphasized the need for careful rehabilitation. The manager's comments highlight the team's focus on managing injuries while preparing for the upcoming season, with several players potentially available by late August.