Sure! Here’s a pair of headline-style articles (around 350 words each, totaling approximately based on your request — focusing on the impact of Jacob Kiraz’s calf injury on both the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs (his club) and the New South Wales Blues (potential Origin implications).
Blow to the Bulldogs: Kiraz Calf Injury Adds to Canterbury’s Woes
Canterbury’s hopes of pushing for a stronger second half of the NRL season have taken a hit with the news that winger Jacob Kiraz is sidelined with a calf injury. The 22-year-old, known for his high work rate and reliability under pressure, suffered the strain during training earlier this week and is expected to miss at least 2–3 weeks.
Kiraz has been a standout for the Bulldogs in an otherwise inconsistent season. Averaging over 150 running meters per game and showing improvement in his defensive reads, he’s been a crucial part of coach Cameron Ciraldo’s plans. His absence leaves a void not only in attack but also in the Bulldogs’ ability to grind out sets from their own end — a key area they’ve worked hard to improve.
With key outside backs already underperforming or unavailable, Ciraldo may be forced to reshuffle his backline or blood another young player to cover the gap. The timing is especially tough as the Bulldogs are approaching a critical stretch of games that could determine whether they stay in contention for a top-eight finish.
The club has not confirmed the full extent of the injury beyond the initial diagnosis, but given Kiraz’s importance to the squad, they are likely to take a cautious approach to his recovery.
2. Blues Hit by Kiraz Setback: Origin Depth Takes a Knock
New South Wales’ State of Origin plans may have taken an indirect hit with the injury to Canterbury winger Jacob Kiraz. While not yet a fixture in the Blues lineup, Kiraz had been touted by some as a smoky for a wing or bench spot in the 2025 series, particularly with several incumbent players battling form or fitness concerns.
Though born in Australia, Kiraz represents Lebanon internationally, but his eligibility for the Blues under Origin rules had recently sparked interest. His consistent performances for Canterbury and versatility across the backline had reportedly put him on the radar of selectors looking to deepen their pool of backs.
The timing of his calf strain could not be worse, with the Blues in the midst of finalizing squads for Game I. Although Kiraz was considered an outside chance, his injury has effectively ruled him out of contention, at least for the opening clash.
The Blues already face questions around the form of experienced wingers and fullbacks, and Kiraz’s absence means one fewer emerging option to turn to. Coach Michael Maguire has emphasized the need for energy, effort, and work ethic in the backfield — qualities Kiraz has consistently displayed in club football.
While Kiraz is young and likely to have more opportunities in the future, the setback underlines the fine margins in representative selection. For now, his focus will be on recovery and returning to club form, with a potential Origin debut postponed — but not forgotten.
Let me know if you’d like these edited down, rewritten in a specific tone (e.g., more casual or formal), or turned into actual news headline
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