There will be no fairytale ending to Ben Cross’ cameo Wigan Warriors career after it was revealed he has broken his arm for a second time.

The 32-year-old Australian front rower, who joined the Warriors on a short-term contract in July after being released by Leeds Rhinos, broke his forearm on his fourth appearance against Salford City Reds in August.

That ruled him out of the Carnegie Challenge Cup final but he made a surprise return against St Helens in the opening play-off fixture 11 days ago and was in line to bow out with a possible Grand Final appearance.

However, he complained of soreness after the Saints game and x-rays have now indicated another stress fracture.

Cross is leaving Wigan at the end of the season, having signed a 12-month deal with Engage Super League new boys Widnes Vikings.

Wigan coach Michael Maguire said: “It is disappointing for Ben. He won’t figure again for us.”

Maguire expects centre Joel Tomkins to be available for Saturday’s qualifying semi-final against St Helens at the Stobart Stadium after coming off against Catalan Dragons with a leg injury last Sunday.

Wigan also hope prop Lee Mossop will be fit to return after aggravating a hamstring injury in the warm-up on Sunday.