Kalo ruled out of the entire 2024 season

PNG Hunter's formidable front rower Seal Kalo has been dealt a significant blow after suffering an anterior cruciate ligament [ACL] injury.

The dynamic forward succumbed to injury in the Mackay Cutter fixture a fortnight ago prematurely ending his 2024 Hostplus Cup campaign.

Kalo’s absence would be a substantial loss for the PNG Hunters currently seated outside finals contention.

The Enga Mioks premiership winner is known for his resilience and strength on the field and his presence in the front row has been a cornerstone of the team’s defense and attacking plays.

Branded for his robust tackling and ability to break through defensive lines, the Southern Highlands native leaves a considerable void in the squad.

Hunters coaches and players have expressed their support and concern, acknowledging the physical and emotional toll such an injury can have on a player of Kalo’s caliber.

The path to recovery from an ACL injury is often strenuous and demanding.

His journey towards recovery began this week with successful surgery in Australia under the watchful eye of one of Australia’s best-known knee surgeons who also operated on SP PNG Hunters teammate Epel Kapinias earlier this year.

Post-surgery, he will embark on a meticulous rehabilitation program tailored to restore his knee's strength, stability, and functionality.

This rehabilitation will involve a combination of physiotherapy, strength training, and potentially other therapeutic modalities to ensure a comprehensive recovery.

Similarly, Kapinias will receive high-level support from the Dolphins NRL medical staff as well as day-to-day guidance from SP PNG Hunter's expert medical team.

Despite the setback, Kalo remains optimistic about his future in the sport. The year-long break, although challenging, provides an opportunity for the front rower to focus on aspects of his physical conditioning that might be neglected during the regular season grind.

This period can be used to build overall strength, improve flexibility, and enhance his understanding of the game from a different perspective.