Just two days after Blues coach Michael Maguire declared Hynes would “hit the ground running on day one”,the halfback joined injured Penrith star Nathan Cleary as a surprise spectator on Wednesday as the team went through its paces for the first time at Blue Mountains Grammar School.
Nicho Hynes has failed to take part in NSW's first training session as he battles to overcome a calf injury.
While the rest of his teammates warmed up in their football boots,Hynes remained in his sneakers and watched the action from the sidelines.
The Sharks have provided the Blues with medical guidance on how to manage Hynes’ workload. The plan is for Hynes to train with the side for the first time on Thursday. The series opener will be held in Sydney next Wednesday.
Hynes carried a calf complaint into camp after being forced off the field prematurely in his side’s big loss to Penrith last weekend. He has missed the first opportunity to build combinations with his teammates,despite Blues coach Michael Maguire previously stating he would pick players only if they were available to train from the outset.
“I reckon he’ll hit the ground running on day one,” Maguire said on Monday.
Nicho Hynes was a spectator during the Blues’ first training session.Wolter Peeters
“That’s what we’re working towards. We’re really confident with where he’s at that he’ll be able to train from day one. I’ve got some really good staff with me,and they’re in continual communication with the Sharkies staff as well.
“He had a scan[on Sunday] and it looked really good. There’s no further damage and I think it actually looked better. He’s got through that now,and I’ll obviously talk to my staff over the next couple of days and work out how we go about his training.”
Cleary,who would have been a certain selection had he not injured his calf,was at the camp to show support. Luke Keary,brought into the squad as cover for Hynes,took part in the session.
“[Hynes] did a little bit,a lot of watching,but we obviously back the physio staff with their plan with him and if he’s right he’ll play,” said Blues teammate Angus Crichton.
Speaking on Tuesday,Hynes said he was a better footballer than the one who spent only 12 minutes on the field during a difficult debut last year.
“I learned plenty of lessons,I’ve matured as a player and as a person,” Hynes said.
“I’m in a better spot than I was last year – physically,mentally,and as a footballer.
“I’m excited to get in and get amongst the team.”
Panther Liam Martin performed his own warm-up away from the main group when NSW officials asked the cameras to stop rolling.
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