League: Panther's setback persisting

Panthers announced yesterday he would again be sidelined due to an ankle injury. Photo / Getty Images

Bryce Cartwright has been ruled out of making his return from injury in the Panthers' NRL clash with Cronulla today at Penrith.

Cartwright was named in the 21-man squad for the match at Pepper Stadium but the Panthers announced yesterday he would again be sidelined due to an ankle injury.

"Anthony Griffin confirms Bryce Cartwright will not play tomorrow but is highly likely to return next week," the Panthers tweeted.

The 22-year-old back-rower hasn't played for over a month, with his last appearance coming in the Panthers' round-two victory over the Wests Tigers.

Pre-season competition favourites Penrith have two wins from their opening six games and sit 12th on the ladder.

Anthony Griffin's men will be desperate to bounce back after a narrow loss to the Rabbitohs at home last Friday night, while the Sharks, the reigning premiers, are flying high after victories over Melbourne and Newcastle recently.

With so much expectation on the young Panthers side, injuries and ill-discipline off-field have disrupted the club, but with troops back this week it shapes as the perfect time to step up against the defending premiers.

Despite the Cartwright setback the Panthers welcome back skipper Matt Moylan and Waqa Blake to the starting line-up in a boost for the home side after a week in the Intrust Super Premiership, while centre Tyrone Peachey has also been named to return for Griffin's outfit after missing a week with a fractured rib.

Kiwis international James Fisher-Harris is another inclusion after overcoming a fractured eye socket while fellow New Zealander Peta Hiku have been named in the reserves.