Euan Aitken and Josh Curran are poised to make a return to the field for NZ Warriors in time for their clash with Penrith Panthers on Sunday.
The pair have spent the last two weeks in their apartments at the team's base in Terrigal, after being required to self-isolate in accordance with the NRL's COVID-19 protocols, having shared a plane with a flight attendant who tested positive for the virus.
After missing the Warriors' past two games, both left isolation on Monday and have immediately been named on an extended bench for the match against the second-placed Panthers, pushing Jack Murchie and Ben Murdoch-Masila out of the gameday squad.
Also in line for a welcome return are halfback Chad Townsend and back rower Tohu Harris. Both have been named among the reserves, as they work their way back from shoulder injuries suffered against St George Dragons two weeks ago.
Otherwise, the run-on side is unchanged from the one which lost 20-12 to Cronulla Sharks on Sunday - their fifth consecutive defeat.
On Wednesday, the squad will relocate to their new hub on the Gold Coast, as one of 12 clubs moving to Queensland to ensure the season can continue in the face of Sydney's recent COVID-19 resurgence.
A new venue has yet to be confirmed for the match, having originally been scheduled to take place at the Warriors' adopted home at Gosford's Central Coast Stadium.
For Sunshine Coast native Curran, news of the Warriors' impending relocation was welcomed with a smile, despite having to essentially re-enter another period of isolation, when the team arrives at their new base.
"I'm really excited to move up to Goldy, to be honest," says Curran.
"I've got my family up there, my parents and I can't wait to see them and be closer to home."
The 22-year-old says time flew by while he was cooped up in his apartment, where he dedicated most of his time to study and training.
"I got some gym equipment, got a treadmill, and a bike, but it did get lonely at dinner times. We'd normally have that together with my roomies.
"I'm currently doing a business course, so I was doing that and keeping myself occupied. Training during the day."
The experience was significantly less lonely for Aitken, who had his partner with him, although the tight confines somewhat limited his ability to stay physically sharp.
"It was tough," says Aitken. "Had to run up and down the driveway. We had about a 25-metre area of space where I had to try and do a bit of exercise. I didn't get a treadmill or anything."
The Panthers have only lost twice this season but will be without injured stars Nathan Cleary and Jarome Luai.
They'll also have their New South Wales contingent - consisting of wing Brian To'o, forward Isaiah Yeo, hooker Apisai Koroisau and Liam Martin - backing up from Wednesday's final State of Origin match.
Join us from 4pm, Sunday for live updates of the NRL clash between NZ Warriors and Cronulla Sharks
