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Mat Rogers of the Gold Coast Titans - Source: Getty Images -
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Clinton Toopi's NRL revival at the Gold Coast Titans has been
curtailed by a quicker than anticipated return from the casualty
ward by Mat Rogers.
The former Kiwis and New Zealand Warriors centre returns to the
outer now Rogers has recovered from a serious knee injury - a month
earlier than expected -- for Friday night's home match against
Manly.
Toopi, who replaced the former dual international for the
corresponding clash in round seven back in April, now faces a
battle to regain a place in the first grade squad for the remainder
of the season.
However, the 29-year-old may still have a future at the club that
offered him a pathway back to the NRL for the first time since 2006
given Rogers is unlikely to have his contract extended.
Titans chief executive Michael Searle admitted it would be
challenging to fit Rogers into the club's playing roster for next
season due to salary cap pressure.
During his rehabilitation the 34-year-old spoke of a possible
return to his original club Cronulla.
A return to rugby with the Queensland Reds is another possibility
for Rogers, who played 45 Tests for the Wallabies between
2002-06.
Reds coach Ewen McKenzie, who assisted Rogers' transition from
league at the NSW Waratahs for three years, would not rule out
recruiting the utility back for next year's Super 15.
"You never say never," he said.
Rogers was originally expected to miss three months after rupturing
his medial ligament in round six against the Dragons but he has
been able to return just eight weeks later.
He teams up in the centres with utility Sam Tagataese, who replaces
an injured James Tomane.
Rogers' return coincides with the Titans bid to snap a three-game
losing streak.
"It's great work from the medical staff to get him back," Titans
coach John Cartwright said.
"They had predicted round 16 at the very earliest so to get him
back in round 14, they have done a fantastic job with him."
Toopi was signed to a one-year incentive based deal as cover - and
as a mentor for the club's indigenous players. He made five
appearances and scored three tries including a double against
Newcastle in round nine.
