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Warriors co-captain Barnett set for lengthy sideline stint
Sport Nation •  March 31st, 2026 9:09 am
Mitch Barnett | Photo: Photosport
The NZ Warriors are facing another stint without their co-captain Mitchell Barnett.
The State of Origin front-rower sparked concerns on social media, with an image of himself captioned "when it rains, it pours". Wife, Clare Barnett, followed with an image of her husband in an arm sling.
The Australian returned from the ruptured ACL in his right knee that curtailed his 2025 campaign in the Warriors' big win over the Newcastle Knights a fortnight ago.
Photo: Mitch and Clare Barnett, Instagram
Speaking to Sport Nation's Scotty & Izzy on Tuesday morning, development and pathways manager Andrew McFadden confirmed Barnett will undergo surgery for a thumb injury and will be out of action for up to six weeks.
"Very disappointing for Mitch as it's obviously only his second week back from his return," McFadden said.
"He'll probably have a four-to-six week stint on the sideline now and think he is looking at some surgery for his thumb.
"It's very disappointing but I'm sure he'll back sooner rather than later."
Tanner Stowers-Smnith will likely shoulder an increased load in Barnett's absence, alongside regulars Jackson Ford and James Fisher-Harris.
The latest injury further curtails Barnett's Warriors tenure, as he prepares to join the Brisbane Broncos from next year after being granted an early release from the final year of his contract in New Zealand on compassionate grounds.
The Warriors are pursuing a player in return from the Broncos as part of the deal, with their sights reportedly set on wing Grant Anderson.
The impressive youngster suffered an MCL injury in the win over the Dolphins last weekend which rule him out of action for the next three months.
The Warriors announce their squad to face the Cronulla Sharks in Sydney at 6pm, Tuesday.
Listen to the full interview below:
Did Luke Metcalf's return stifle the Warriors' attacking rhythm? | Scotty & Izzy
