Canberra Raiders forward Corey Harawira-Naera could be forced into an early NRL retirement, according to head coach Ricky Stuart.

The 28-year-old hasn’t played since a scary incident against South Sydney in May when he collapsed mid-game and began experiencing a seizure.

The early reports suggested that Harawira-Naera could make a speedy recovery to the game, but unfortunately it now seems unlikely he will make it back at all.

“It is really sad for the kid… it’s a tragedy actually,” Stuart told Wide World of Sports.

“The medical reports we are getting is that he is very unlikely to play again.

“At 28, that’s tough and he has been good for us.

“But we are supporting him and looking for a pathway for him after football. We would like to keep him in the game and in the club.”

Harawira-Naera joined the Raiders during the 2020 season and has played 55 games for the club and scored nine tries. He has played a variety of roles including lock forward, second row and off the bench, and has become a fan favourite for leading the Viking Clap with fans after wins.

The Raiders will reportedly seek salary cap compensation due to Harawira-Naera’s uncertain future.