Inglis battles depression

NRL superstar Greg Inglis is battling depression.

The injured South Sydney captain has checked himself into a mental health clinic.

The Queensland State of Origin and Australian Test ace — who is sidelined with a seasonending knee injury — is receiving support from his NRL club.

“Rabbitohs captain Greg Inglis has entered a mental health rehabilitation facility,” the Rabbitohs said last night in a statement. “Inglis entered the facility last week and will be undergoing a series of programs and treatments to assist with his mental health.

“The Rabbitohs, Greg and his management will not be making any further comment at this stage, and we ask the media to respect the privacy of both Greg and his family at this time.”

The 30-year-old tore an ACL in Souths’ season opener against the Tigers, but Australian coach Mal Meninga last week said he remained hopeful that the would be Kangaroos’ campaign.

“GI is so hopeful he will be back by the end of the year. He hasn’t given up which is the most important thing,” Meninga said at a Fox Sports Origin launch in Brisbane last Friday.

“He’s trying his hardest to be available at the end of the year.”

A veteran of 30 Origin games, Inglis was also expected to join the Maroons in camp for this year’s series, just as the injured Billy Slater did last year. 38-Test stalwart available for the 2017 World Cp MAROONS legend Brent Tate believes Coen Hess’ inexperience at NRL level could help the Cowboys youngster avoid stage fright if he’s thrust into the Origin arena this year.

Tate and the injured Cowboys prop had each played just 14 matches before they were blooded for Queensland, the least number of any debutants since the NRL era began in 1998.

Hess will play just his 20th NRL match against Cronulla tonight and while many feel that could count against him,