The grip strength in Dylan Walker's left hand had become so weak that it was decided last month the South Sydney centre would require another operation.

However, Walker would have to put up with the pain and continue playing until the end of the Rabbitohs' season before again undergoing surgery on the hand he broke in the round two match against Sydney Roosters.

With Greg Inglis sidelined after minor surgery aimed at ensuring he was able to play in the finals, Walker was moved to fullback in the round 25 match against Brisbane but if the intention had been to keep it out of the defensive line it failed as he missed six tackles in the 47-12 loss.