Gasnier out for six weeks following
freak accident

St George Illawarra Dragons centre Mark Gasnier has reportedly snapped his collarbone after falling awkwardly while leaving his car.

Gasnier, who turned 23 last Monday, was already recovering from a fractured collarbone suffered in State of Origin III but was expected back in two weeks in time for Saints' round 22 clash against the Melbourne Storm. Today's accident sees him out for an additional four weeks, with a likely return in the second week of September and in time for the finals.

The news adds to what has been a roller coaster year for Gasnier who was dropped from the New South Wales Origin squad and reportedly signing with English club Wigan for 2005. He was then recalled into the representative squad, scoring two tries for NSW in what was his Origin debut.

Yesterday, the Dragons announced they were not releasing the star centre and that he would remain with the club until at least 2006.