Canterbury bulldogs star Will Hopoate out for 6-8 weeks with ankle injury

The Canterbury Bulldogs have been dealt a huge blow after fullback Will Hopoate was ruled out for 6-8 weeks with an ankle injury.

The club's 34-6 loss to the Wests Tigers was soured by an ankle injury to the star who has arguably been their best player in a campaign that hasn't reached great heights.

Hopoate's ankle got caught underneath following contact from Wests Tigers forward Luke Garner in the fourth minute.

Canterbury's injury list isn't as long as rival clubs in the NRL but losing Hopoate will have a huge impact on the side's chances moving through the season.

The Bulldogs are already missing the likes of Marcelo Montoya, Isaiah Tass, Chris Smith and Joe Stimson.