Damien Cook's regular season is over after he tested positive to COVID-19 just hours before South Sydney's crucial clash with North Queensland.
Cook contracted the virus on Saturday morning, meaning he'll be in isolation for the Cowboys game and the Allianz Stadium opener with the Sydney Roosters.
The news comes as a significant blow to Souths, who must one of their last two to wrap up a fifth straight finals appearance.
The NSW State of Origin star has returned to form in recent weeks, and is a vital cog in the Rabbitohs' attack.
Veteran utility Siliva Havili will start at hooker against North Queensland, while Michael Chee Kam has been brought on to the bench.
Cook trained with the Bunnies on Friday morning, and would have tested negative before the club's captain's run.
Players are rapid tested before every training session and match in a bid to lower the risk of the virus running through squads.
