Panthers full-back Dallin Watene-Zelezniak does not need surgery

Dallin Watene-Zelezniak does not require surgery on a collapsed lung, but the Penrith Panthers' full-back is to be kept on the sidelines indefinitely.

Watene-Zelezniak was hospitalised on Tuesday after suffering a primary spontaneous pneumothorax, resulting in a collapsed lung.

A Panthers statement read: "Following further medical advice Dallin Watene-Zelezniak will not require surgery, however his return to the field is still indefinite at this stage."

The genetic condition is not career-ending, but as yet there is no indication as to when Watene-Zelezniak, who will be replaced in the line-up by Will Smith on Friday when the Panthers face Melbourne Storm.

Coach Ivan Cleary had previously admitted that Watene-Zelezniak - who signed a contract extension to the end of 2016 in February - had been experiencing symptoms last year.

Watene-Zelezniak, who can also play as a winger and centre, has seven tries in 16 games for the Panthers this season.