Bradford Bulls centre Esan Marsters will miss the remainder of the 2026 season due to an Achilles injury, head coach Kurt Haggerty confirmed. The setback comes as a significant blow to the Bulls’ backline plans, with Marsters having been touted as a key signing ahead of the campaign.
The injury was disclosed by Haggerty in recent comments to local media, where he acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding the team’s centre options moving forward. Marsters, who joined the Bulls ahead of the season, will now undergo rehabilitation with no immediate return date specified.
Achilles tendon injuries are among the most serious in rugby league, often requiring extended recovery periods due to the tendon’s critical role in explosive movements such as sprinting and changing direction. The nature of such injuries typically necessitates careful management to avoid re-rupture, particularly in high-impact sports.
Marsters, a New Zealand international, had previously represented his country at test level and was expected to bring experience and creativity to the Bulls’ attacking play. His absence leaves a notable gap in the team’s centre combinations, prompting Haggerty to admit he is unsure who will fill the vacancy.
The Bulls have not released an official statement detailing the exact diagnosis or timeline for Marsters’ recovery, leaving the duration of his absence based on the coach’s assessment that he will be sidelined for the rest of the season.
This development adds to the challenges faced by Bradford Bulls in a competitive league season, where squad depth and injury management play crucial roles in determining outcomes. The club will now look to its existing players or potential short-term solutions to cover the centre position.
As of the latest available information, no further updates on Marsters’ condition have been issued by the club or medical staff. Supporters and analysts alike will be monitoring for any official communication regarding his rehabilitation progress.
For ongoing updates on player injuries and team news, fans are encouraged to refer to the Bradford Bulls’ official website and verified club channels.
What are your thoughts on how the Bulls should adapt to losing Marsters for the season? Share your views in the comments below and join the conversation on social media.