The Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs have been dealt a blow with promising young half Ash Quinlan forced from the field due to injury during their clash with the North Queensland Cowboys on Saturday night.
The 23-year-old playmaker limped off midway through the second half after appearing to twist awkwardly during a tackle. Quinlan immediately clutched at his right knee, signaling to the sideline as medical staff rushed to assess the situation. He was helped off the field and did not return for the remainder of the match.
While the Bulldogs have yet to confirm the extent of the injury, early signs suggest it could be a medial ligament strain, though further scans will determine the full severity. Head coach Cameron Ciraldo expressed concern post-match, saying the club would be taking a cautious approach.
> “Ash has been a big part of our spine this season, and it’s tough to see him go down like that,” Ciraldo said. “We’ll get him scanned and take it from there, but obviously it’s disappointing.”
Quinlan has been one of the bright sparks for the Bulldogs in 2025, playing a key role in the side’s resurgence through his composed kicking game and sharp game management. A product of the Bulldogs’ junior system, he has steadily earned praise for his leadership and creativity in the halves.
The Bulldogs, already facing injury challenges in their squad, now face a difficult period ahead if Quinlan is ruled out for an extended stretch. Young utility back Luke Carrington stepped into the halves following Quinlan’s departure and may be called upon to fill the void in the coming weeks.
Despite a spirited performance, the Bulldogs fell short against a fast-finishing Cowboys outfit, going down 26–18 at Accor Stadium. The loss, compounded by Quinlan’s injury, leaves the club in a precarious position as they fight to stay in the finals race.
More information on Quinlan’s injury is expected to be released following scans on Monday.
Stay tuned for updates as the Bulldogs await medical results on Ash Quinlan.
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