Panthers dealt blow as winger ruled out for season

The Penrith Panthers have been dealt a significant blow on the cusp of the 2023 NRL season, with talented winger Taylan May requiring season-ending knee surgery following the club's golden-point World Club Challenge loss to St Helens last weekend.

It's a cruel blow for the 21-year-old, who had secured his place on the wing last season, scoring 16 tries in just 21 games as the Panthers secured back-to-back premierships.

Coach Ivan Cleary has a number of talented options at his disposal to replace May, with the lead candidate likely to be Sunia Turuva - another young explosive outside back who made his NRL debut last season.

The Panthers kick off their 2023 NRL campaign against Brisbane next week, as they seek to become the first club since the 1980's to win three-consecutive premierships.

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