Brisbane skipper Darius Boyd expects to return to NRL action in round 20 after receiving welcome news on a broken thumb that has sidelined him for next week's State of Origin series decider.
Boyd's run of 28 straight Origin games for Queensland came to an abrupt halt after suffering the fracture in the Maroons' 18-16 game two win in Sydney.
"It is a bit disappointing. It will be my first game in 10 years of Origin I have missed," Boyd told Broncos TV.
"I was pretty proud of that record and achievement.
"It will be sad to miss it but I will be there watching and cheering the boys on."
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While gutted to be relegated to spectator status for July 12's Origin decider at Suncorp Stadium, Boyd was at least content with the verdict on his right thumb from Broncos medical staff.
Boyd was told he would be sidelined for only a month after his break required pins and not a plate.
The Broncos said a return for their July 20 home clash with Canterbury was a "realistic goal".
"I only got pins so hopefully that is four weeks," Boyd said.
"There's a bye in there too, so hopefully I will be back before I know it and help contribute to team performances."
Boyd admitted he did not realise how serious his thumb injury was during a rollercoaster Origin game two at ANZ Stadium.
"I wasn't sure, I haven't broken a bone before. I have been pretty lucky," he said.
"I knew it was sore but I was hoping it was bruising, cartilage or muscle soreness."
Fifth-placed Brisbane have an NRL bye this week.
