Walker's Origin hopes dashed after untimely blow

Cody Walker has been ruled out of South Sydney's round 12 clash with the Eels after suffering a calf injury during Magic Round.

The five-eighth, who was in the mix to be selected for NSW, won't feature on Saturday night in a tough blow for his State of Origin ambitions.

The club confirmed the news on Thursday evening and believe Walker will be fit to return in time for the side's round 14 match against the Gold Coast Titans and could play for the Blues if selected, which now appears unlikely.

"Rabbitohs five-eighth Cody Walker has been ruled out of this Saturday night's match against the Parramatta Eels with a low-grade calf strain, sustained against the Cowboys last weekend in Magic Round," a statement said.

Cody Walker won't play for Souths in round 12.

"Walker finished last week's match but was ruled out late this week prior to the captain's run on Friday.

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"With the Rabbitohs having a bye next week, the club has resisted the temptation to play Cody this week which heightens the risk of further injury and time on the sidelines. He is expected to be fit for the round 14 game against the Titans.

"It's expected he could play in the first State of Origin game for New South Wales if he is selected in the squad on Sunday night."

Walker's absence will see Jack Wighton and Dion Teaupa form a new-look halves combination for the last-placed Rabbitohs.

Latrell Mitchell will take over the captaincy against the Eels as the superstar fullback stakes his claim for a spot in Michael Maguire's NSW squad.