Mal Meninga says Cameron Murray's wrist injury was unknown to team staff ahead of Kiwis clash

Mal Meninga claims the Kangaroos were unaware of the injury Cameron Murray was carrying before the New Zealand clash as the South Sydney star prepares to face up to five months on the sidelines.

Murray was withdrawn from the side's upcoming Pacific Championship final by team medics after suffering a wrist injury.

It remains unclear if Murray had suffered the injury ahead of the Kangaroos' victory against New Zealand, with team medics sending him for precautionary scans following the team's training on Monday.

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The 26-year-old was diagnosed with a scapholunate injury, known to have a lengthy recovery period.

He is expected to undergo surgery within the next week.

Murray was a pivotal player in Australia's 22-10 victory over New Zealand, having worn strapping tape on his left wrist for the entire 80 minutes.

Meninga had an option to rest the Souths skipper in favour of Hudson Young but elected not to make the switch as Murray was eager to play.

"I know Cam had hurt it at training, but we didn't know the extent of it because he kept it quiet," Meninga said.

"He never complained and just got on with business. He never wanted anyone to know.

"We knew he was sore, but he was fine to play. It's that simple.

"He still had a terrific game, and it's not like it affected him. It's unfortunate it happened.

"And regardless of how serious it was prior to the game, I can only imagine he's done the damage throughout the game.

"The welfare of our players is the most important thing, but he felt like he could play, and he made that choice."

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Murray's battle with injury restricted him to just 14 games in the 2024 NRL season but did not limit his chances for international selection.

His effort in the green and gold jersey was one Meninga believes epitomises the character of the team.

"We're calling out for players to make themselves available for the international game, and he epitomises that.

"I know he loves playing the game and playing in the Australian colours. From my perspective, that's the exact kind of person you want putting on the Australian jersey."

Australia will face Tonga on November 10 in the Pacific Championships final.