As the 2025 preseason approaches, the Dolphins are juggling critical decisions on contracts, injury management, player moves, and international commitments.
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Key negotiations for 2025
As Fox Sports reports, the club faces the challenge of securing key players before rival clubs make their moves. Second-rower Connelly Lemuelu, whose standout performances have been pivotal this season, is likely to top the list for re-signing, with his impressive form attracting attention across the NRL. Sean O’Sullivan’s strong finish to the season in the halves positions him as another priority for retention.
The Dolphins are also weighing contract options for experienced players Felise Kaufusi, Kenny Bromwich, and Mark Nicholls, who each bring veteran leadership to the squad. With Kaufusi potentially entering free agency after 1 November, the team risks losing his presence to competitors if a deal isn’t secured soon.
Dolphins players on the mend
The Dolphins’ medical staff have been diligently working to address various injuries within the squad. Jeremy Marshall-King and Kenny Bromwich have both undergone minor surgeries—Marshall-King on his knee and Bromwich on his elbow.
Lemuelu faces a significant challenge as he recovers from shoulder reconstruction surgery. Fullback Trai Fuller’s situation is more long-term following a successful knee reconstruction, while Tom Gilbert is steadily progressing in his recovery from an ACL injury.
Tesi Niu heads to the Super League
Tesi Niu’s confirmed move to the Leigh Leopards in the Super League for 2025 marks a pivotal change for the Dolphins’ backline. After making 17 appearances for the club in 2023, Niu faced growing competition in the backline with the arrivals of Herbie Farnworth and Jake Averillo, making an overseas opportunity all the more appealing.
Reflecting on his decision after winning the QLD Cup and the NRL State Championship, Niu told Zero Tackle, “I’m leaving for the UK, and to finish off like this, I couldn’t have asked for a better end.”
Leigh Journal captured the excitement surrounding Niu’s arrival, quoting Leopards’ head of rugby Chris Chester: “Tesi has played for two quality teams in the NRL… He’s a big, strong, athletic, and powerful rugby player who will excite all our fans in 2025 and beyond.”
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Dolphins on duty for the Pacific Championships
The selection of several Dolphins players for international duty in the Pacific Championships highlights the squad’s depth and calibre. Kurt Donoghoe and Mason Teague will represent Fiji Bati and the Cook Islands, respectively, as the sole Dolphins players in their teams. Jamayne Isaako and Kodi Nikorima are set to play for defending Pacific champions New Zealand, while Isaiya Katoa, Felise Kaufusi, and 2025 recruit Kulikefu Finefeuiaki join the formidable Tongan side.
Fullback Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow’s selection for the green-and-gold cements his status as one of the NRL’s emerging stars. Hammer and the Kangaroos will first face Tonga on 18 October at Suncorp Stadium, followed by a match against New Zealand on 27 October in Christchurch.
Updated 25-October-2024
