Tonie Carroll has had a phenomenal number of injuries at such a young age. Before hitting the big time in 1996, Carroll had had shoulder and knee operations and has suffered a chronic hamstring injury in recent seasons.
Another of the tough, straight runners, Carroll broke the 1998 Grand Final open after half time with his side trailing 12-10. He also scored the winning try in the 1998 State of Origin series.
With the departure of Darren Smith, Carroll has a golden opportunity in 1999 to cement a first grade spot.
Carroll is infamous amongst New Zealand league fans for refusing to play for his birth country and instead choosing to fight for an Australian spot.
More injury problems plagued the big centre in 1999, but he was a match winner on several occasions. He was again chosen in the State of Origin side for Queensland and continues to grow in confidence. Carroll faces a battle for a starting position in 2000 with Ben Ikin joining the club.
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