NRL: Farah may go under knife

Robbie Farah. Photo / Getty Images

Robbie Farah will lead the injury-decimated Tigers against the Roosters today in the face of a painful groin complaint that could require surgery and jeopardise his chances of a State of Origin recall.

Sydney's Daily Telegraph reported that Farah has been pencilled into an extraordinary casualty ward after being diagnosed with osteo pubis during the week.

The Tigers skipper saw noted sports surgeon Neil Halpin on Wednesday and was told the condition had degenerated enough for him to go under the knife immediately.

Surgery would put the talented hooker out for six weeks, cruelly dashing his hopes of reclaiming the Blues' No. 9 from Bulldogs rival Michael Ennis for Origin I.

But, with his side reeling through the loss of stars Chris Lawrence (hip), Lote Tuqiri (arm), Bryce Gibbs (knee), Liam Fulton (shoulder), Gareth Ellis (ankle), Beau Ryan (groin) and Robert Lui (ankle), Farah has opted to battle on against the Roosters.

It's understood the 27-year-old will make a decision on his short-term future based on his recovery from the match, according to the Telegraph.

Two weeks ago, Farah revealed he was suffering from "tendinitis" in his groin and has notably modified his kicking and running game so far this season.

Farah's absence would be a catastrophe for the Tigers, who already have close to half their salary cap sidelined through injury. While Gibbs and Ryan could return next week, the remaining casualties are all out for six weeks at least.