The hooker went down on Monday with a bicep injury that, if operated on, could have him out of the game for up to six months.

The former Tiger has opted to refrain from surgery in the hope of being right for Round 1 of the NRL season.

It is believed with rehab, the 32-year-old could be okay to start the season but will need things to go his way.

It is not the start Farah or South Sydney would have hoped for after the NSW Origin star signed a two-year deal with the club.

He has not played a top-flight game since July after being dropped to reserve grade by Tigers coach Jason Taylor.