Auckland, Modern Zealand – The New Zealand Warriors face a significant setback ahead of the 2026 NRL season with the confirmation that playmaker Te Maire Martin has suffered a fractured fibula in his right leg. The injury occurred during the Māori-Indigenous All Stars match held at FMG Stadium in Hamilton on Sunday, sidelining the veteran utility for an estimated 12 weeks.
Martin, who has re-signed with the Warriors through the finish of the 2026 season, sustained the injury in the 25th minute of the All Stars clash. According to reports, the fracture occurred when his leg collided with the knee of Māori second rower Briton Nikora while making a tackle on Indigenous winger Josh Addo-Carr.
The Warriors confirmed Martin will undergo surgery to repair the fractured fibula, with a projected return to play anticipated around rounds 11 or 12 of the NRL season. This marks the second time Martin has fractured a fibula during his NRL career, having previously suffered a similar injury to his left leg while playing for the Newcastle Knights in 2023.
Martin’s absence represents a blow to the Warriors’ plans, particularly given his versatility and value off the bench. Last season, he made 17 appearances for the club, frequently utilized as a utility player capable of covering multiple positions. Warriors head coach Andrew Webster highlighted Martin’s ability to fill various roles when injuries struck the team, praising his “club-first attitude” and “next man up mentality.”
The injury adds to the Warriors’ growing injury list as they prepare for the start of the NRL season. Halfback Luke Metcalf is already undergoing rehabilitation from a knee injury that required season-ending surgery last July. Several players are unavailable for the upcoming pre-season trial against the Dolphins, including co-captain James Fisher-Harris, who has been given the week off, and winger Alofiana Khan-Pereira, who is following concussion protocols after suffering a head knock in the All Stars match.
Fullback Taine Tuaupiki has been cleared to play against the Dolphins after recovering from a leg injury that delayed his return to training. However, Roger Tuivasa-Sheck (hamstring), Chanel Harris-Tavita (calf), and Marata Niukore (calf) remain unavailable for the trial match. The Warriors are scheduled to initiate their NRL campaign against the Sydney Roosters at Go Media Stadium on March 6.