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The Dolphins Roundup: Niu Heads to the UK, Tabuai-Fidow Joins Kangaroos

As the 2025 preseason approaches, the Dolphins are juggling critical decisions on contracts, injury management, player moves, and international commitments.

Read: The Dolphins Roundup: Phins Land Dally M Honours and Powerhouse Recruits

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

The Dolphins Roundup: Phins End Controversial Sponsorship, Address Rumours About Star Halfback

The Dolphins NRL club has terminated a controversial sponsorship deal amid regulatory hurdles, while speculation mounts over potential recruitment of St George Illawarra Dragons captain Ben Hunt.

Read: The Dolphins Roundup: Niu Heads to the UK, Tabuai-Fidow Joins Kangaroos

Regulatory pressure forces sponsorship exit

Alternaleaf and the Dolphins have ended their partnership following ongoing challenges with the Therapeutic Goods Act. The relationship faced public scrutiny earlier this season when the team was forced to tape over Alternaleaf’s branding during their Darwin fixture.

“Given the regulatory challenges, our partnership has concluded,” Dolphins CEO Terry Reader confirmed. “However, we maintain positive relations with Alternaleaf and remain open to future opportunities should circumstances change.”

Kelly King, speaking for Alternaleaf’s parent company Montu, expressed pride in the association with the Dolphins, highlighting the team’s impressive performance in their sophomore season.

Rumours swirl as Hunt eyes Queensland return

Meanwhile, the club faces mounting speculation regarding St George Illawarra Dragons captain Ben Hunt. The Queensland veteran, who has been granted permission to explore offers for 2026, has previously expressed interest in finishing his career in his home state. Hunt, a former Brisbane Broncos halfback with over 300 NRL appearances, would bring valuable experience to the developing squad.

Sources close to the Dragons told The Herald that the club would consider an early release for Hunt in 2024—despite his contract running through 2025—provided they receive adequate compensation.

However, according to the Daily Telegraph,the Dolphins management maintains a measured stance despite media reports suggesting preliminary talks. “We’re always interested in good players if they’re interested in coming to our club but at the moment there’s nothing to report,” says Reader.

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Dolphins coach Kristian Woolf moved swiftly to address the rumours head-on. “I can sit here with my hand on my heart and say we’ve had no contact at all,” Woolf stated firmly. Instead, the coach doubled down on his support for rising halfback Isaiya Katoa, with whom he shares a strong connection through their time together with the Tongan national team.

“I love what Isaiya Katoa brings. He’s an outstanding halfback and he’s a guy that I think is going to be an elite halfback in the NRL and I think he’s already shown that,” Woolf said.

Published 21-October-2024

The Dolphins Roundup: Phins Land Dally M Honours and Powerhouse Recruits

Photo Credit: jack/Instagram

It’s been a momentous week for the Dolphins. Alongside dual Dally M award victories for Herbie Farnworth and Jack Bostock, the club has announced the additions of Origin prop Daniel Saifiti and promising outside back Max Feagai for 2025, as well as securing two key assistant coaches to join incoming head coach Kristian Woolf.

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Dolphins celebrate Dally M success

The Dolphins’ impressive sophomore campaign has been recognised at the Dally M Awards, with the club securing two prestigious honours. Herbie Farnworth claimed the Centre of the Year award, while Jack Bostock was named Rookie of the Year, marking a major achievement for the young winger.

Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow was also in contention for Fullback of the Year. He was ultimately edged out by Roosters’ James Tedesco, rounding out a strong showing for the club with three nominees.

Origin prop Daniel Saifiti joins

In a major coup for the Dolphins, representative front-rower Daniel Saifiti will join the club from the Newcastle Knights. The 28-year-old veteran brings considerable experience to the forward pack, with 183 NRL games under his belt, seven State of Origin appearances for NSW, and international experience representing Fiji.

The signing reunites Saifiti with incoming head coach Kristian Woolf, his former mentor at the Knights. “He is a representative player, he is tough, aggressive, and a hard worker—all the things the Dolphins pride themselves on being,” Dolphins CEO Terry Reader said.

Alongside Saifiti, Knights assistant coach Rory Kostjasyn will also make the move north, adding valuable coaching expertise to the staff.

The Woolf pack grows

The Dolphins have further strengthened their squad by securing 23-year-old Max Feagai from the St George Illawarra Dragons. The young star joins a formidable lineup of outside backs, competing alongside the trio of Dally M nominees, as well as established players Jamayne Isaako and Trai Fuller.

Dragons assistant coach Ben Woolf will unite with his brother Kristian, who will take over the reins from Wayne Bennett.

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The new recruits will begin their Dolphins journey in November’s preseason, marking the start of an exciting chapter as the club builds toward 2025 with a reinforced playing and coaching roster.

Published 07-October-2024

Dolphins vs Knights: Sudden-Death Clash to Determine Last NRL Finals Spot

The Dolphins will face a make-or-break clash against the Newcastle Knights this Sunday, 8 September, with the winner claiming the eighth and final spot in the NRL finals series. Dolphins vs Knights kick off 4:05 p.m. at McDonald Jones Stadium in Newcastle.

Read: Dolphins vs Capras: Redcliffe Face Elimination in Final Series Battle Against Central Queensland

Wayne Bennett’s strategy and pre-game speech pay off

After a commanding 40-6 victory over the Brisbane Broncos, the Dolphins now control their finals destiny as they prepare for this crucial away match.

Coach Wayne Bennett’s experience and tactical acumen was on full display in the Battle for Brisbane. Trai Fuller’s inclusion at fullback and the repositioning of Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow to the centres were particularly effective, while Jake Averillo impressed in his role in the halves.

Herbie Farnworth, who earned the ‘Battle Medal’ as player of the match, credits Bennett’s creative coaching for the team’s dominant performance.

Reports also suggest that Bennett delivered a stirring pre-match speech, igniting a fierce determination in his players that was evident in every tackle and try.

Tevita Pangai Jnr described Bennett as “pretty animated and pretty fired up,” adding, “Wayne has been in this situation before… It is pretty crazy what we did tonight.”

Dolphins vs Knights

As the Dolphins prepare for their trip to Newcastle, the team remains focused on the task at hand. Winger Jamayne Isaako emphasised the importance of the upcoming game, stating, “We will soak in (the win against the Broncos) and get back to the drawing board and refocus ourselves and look forward to Newcastle.”

In a significant boost for the Phins, Felise Kaufusi has been cleared to play in the final game of the home-and-away season.

The judiciary downgraded his dangerous contact charge from the Broncos match, resulting in a fine rather than a suspension—ensuring the Dolphins have a stronger squad for the encounter.

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With their finals fate hanging in the balance, the Dolphins are poised for what could be one of the most significant matches in their short history. A win would not only secure a finals berth but also mark a historic achievement for the Dolphins, who are aiming to make the finals in just their second NRL season—a remarkable feat for the competition’s newest team.

Published 04-September-2024

Dolphins Name Mark Nicholls Captain for High-Stakes Broncos Showdown

The Dolphins are set to face off against the Broncos this Saturday, 31 August, at Suncorp Stadium, with both teams’ finals hopes hanging by a thread. Mark Nicholls will lead the Dolphins in this season-defining Battle for Brisbane, stepping into the leadership role in Jesse Bromwich’s absence.

Read: Dolphins vs Broncos: Phins Face Crucial Battle for Brisbane in Race for Finals Berth

Mark Nicholls assigned captaincy

As the Dolphins prepare for this critical encounter, several key changes have been made to their lineup. Mark Nicholls assumes the captaincy with Jesse Bromwich sidelined due to concussion protocols, while Sean O’Sullivan moves from the bench to start at five-eighth, replacing Kodi Nikorima, who is also out due to the protocols.

Mason Teague returns to the interchange, boosting the forward pack’s versatility. Fijian international Kurt Donoghoe secures a bench spot for his first NRL game since round 19, while Lachlan Hubner is named as the 18th man.

Race for eighth

The Dolphins, sitting in 10th place with 26 points, are in a must-win situation to keep their finals hopes alive. They must defeat the Broncos and the Knights in their final matches to have a chance at sneaking into the top eight, reliant on the St. George Illawarra Dragons, currently in 8th place, to lose at least one of their remaining games.

Crucially, the Dolphins hold a significant points differential lead over the Dragons but trail the Broncos in this regard. Their path to the finals is narrow but still within reach.

The Broncos, equal to the Phins in points but with superior for/against, find themselves in a similar do-or-die scenario. The outcome of this match will likely eliminate one of these Queensland rivals from contention, adding extra intensity to an already fierce local derby.

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The Dolphins enter this crucial fixture looking to reverse a concerning trend, having lost five of their last six matches. This slump has seen them slide from a comfortable position in the top eight to the brink of missing the finals altogether.

With their season on the line, the Dolphins must find a way to halt this downward spiral and secure a much-needed victory.

Published 29-August-2024

Dolphins vs Broncos: Phins Face Crucial Battle for Brisbane in Race for Finals Berth

In a season-defining derby, the Dolphins will face off against the Brisbane Broncos this Saturday, 31 August, with both teams battling for a crucial NRL final series spot. Dolphins vs Broncos kick off 5:30 p.m. at Suncorp Stadium.

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Tight race for eighth

As the regular season nears its conclusion, the Dolphins find themselves in a fierce five-way battle for the final position in the top eight. The Dolphins, currently tied on 26 points with the Broncos, Knights, and Raiders, are just two points shy of the eighth-placed Dragons.

The significance of Saturday’s derby cannot be overstated—a loss would almost effectively end the defeated team’s season. Dolphins coach Wayne Bennett knows that the team’s recent slump—winning just three of their last 12—must be halted immediately if they are to keep their finals aspirations alive.

After this derby, the Dolphins are set to face another top eight contender, the Newcastle Knights, away from home.

Dolphins vs Broncos

The potential return of hooker Jeremy Marshall-King from a foot injury that has sidelined him for seven matches could provide a crucial boost to the Phins’ lineup. His presence has been sorely missed during the team’s recent struggles, which have seen them concede 150 points in their last four games.

In more positive news, Dolphins centre Jake Averillo is set to make his 100th NRL appearance in this crucial match.

In their last encounter, the Broncos secured a 28-14 victory, unleashing a devastating second-half blitz with four tries in just 14 minutes. To avoid a repeat, the Dolphins will need to tighten their defence and sustain their intensity throughout the match.

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As the 2024 NRL season reaches its climax, the Dolphins find themselves at a crossroads. A win against the Broncos could reignite their finals push and potentially secure them a spot in the postseason in just their second year back in the competition.

Published 26-August-2024

Dolphins vs Titans: Phins Seek to Continue Dominance Over Gold Coast in Must-Win Match

The Dolphins face a crucial match against the Gold Coast Titans on Sunday, July 28, as they fight to keep their finals hopes alive. Following a tight golden point defeat to the defending champions, Wayne Bennett’s squad aims to cement their top-eight position against a Titans team facing challenges. Dolphins vs Titans kick off 4:05 p.m. at Suncorp Stadium.

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Golden point loss against Penrith

Despite losing 28-26 to the Penrith Panthers, the Dolphins showed they can compete with the league’s elite, leading for much of the game. They took an early lead courtesy of Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow’s first-half double and Isaiya Katoa’s effort. Halftime came with the Dolphins up 18-12.

The second half saw the Dolphins extend their lead to 26-14, with Jack Bostock scoring and Jamayne Isaako adding a penalty goal. However, the Panthers mounted a comeback, capitalising on Josh Kerr’s sin-binning in the 74th minute to level the score and force a golden point.

Despite the eventual 28-26 loss, sealed by Nathan Cleary’s 42-metre drop goal, the Dolphins’ performance against the premiers has raised their stock considerably. Their ability to push the Panthers to the limit in enemy territory bodes well for their finals aspirations.

Dolphins vs Titans

The Titans, six points outside the top eight, enter the match after a loss to Manly, breaking a three-game winning streak that included a commanding 66-6 victory over the Warriors.

The Dolphins hold a perfect record against the Titans, winning all three of their previous encounters. Their most recent matchup saw the Dolphins overcome a slow start to claim a 30-14 victory, with Jack Bostock scoring his first career try double.

Currently sitting seventh on the ladder with a 9-8 record, the Dolphins have lost three of their last four matches. However, their competitive showing against Penrith suggests they’re hitting form at the right time.

The Titans, despite their recent struggles, boast a strong record at Suncorp Stadium, having won three of their past four games at the venue.

The matchup pits two experienced coaches against each other, with Wayne Bennett holding a 21-11 head-to-head advantage over Des Hasler. Bennett’s recent record is particularly impressive, having won his last six games against Hasler-coached teams.

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As the regular season enters its final stages, this clash holds significant implications for both teams. The Dolphins aim to solidify their finals position in just their second NRL season, while the Titans look to keep their slim playoff hopes alive.

Published 23-July-2024

Dolphins vs Storm: Phins Chase Another Upset Against Table-Toppers Melbourne

The Dolphins will look to pull off another boilover when they host leaders Melbourne Storm on Friday, June 21. Wayne Bennett’s men are brimming with confidence after toppling the Sharks last round and need just one more win to match their inaugural season victory tally. Dolphins vs Storm kickoff 8:00 p.m. Suncorp Stadium.

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Injury boosts for both sides

While the hosts lose Queensland stars Felise Kaufusi and Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow to Origin duties, they regain Jesse Bromwich from a rib injury. Exciting winger Tesi Niu is also a chance to return from an ankle issue.

For the Storm, Trent Loiero is set to be released from Maroons camp to play, while Ryan Papenhuyzen could make his long-awaited comeback from an ankle problem.

Dolphins vs Storm

The Dolphins’ attack has been firing on all cylinders, scoring at least 20 points in their past six outings. Winger Jack Bostock has crossed for 10 tries in his last 11 games. As Bromwich is passed fit, Bennett’s pack receives another major boost.

Despite being without Maroons duo Harry Grant and Xavier Coates, Melbourne’s depth remains the envy of most clubs. Jahrome Hughes has been instrumental in nine of their 10 wins this season, while Nick Meaney has amassed 62 points in his last four outings alone. The returning Papenhuyzen would also be a huge addition.

One concerning stat for Dolphins fans is that Bennett’s teams have now lost 11 straight against Melbourne. However, this Dolphins outfit continues to exceed expectations and will fancy their chances of an upset on home soil.

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Jeremy Marshall-King extends

In a major boost ahead of the crunch clash, the Dolphins locked in a key part of their future by extending dummy-half Jeremy Marshall-King’s deal until 2028. The Kiwi international has been a revelation since joining the club and forms a crucial part of their long-term spine plans.

Published 19-June-2024

Dolphins vs Tigers: NRL Magic Round Continue Festivities at Suncorp Stadium

The 2024 NRL Magic Round will continue over the weekend, promising an action-packed Sunday afternoon of rugby league. Among the pivotal match-ups on May 19 at the Suncorp Stadium are three eagerly anticipated encounters that are sure to keep Redcliffe fans on the edge of their seats. The Warriors clash with the Panthers and the Storm battle the Eels before the main event kicks off: Dolphins vs Tigers at 6:25 p.m.

Warriors vs Panthers

Kicking off at 1:50 p.m, the Warriors and Panthers will both be without their star playmakers. Shaun Johnson’s pectoral injury has dealt a serious blow to the Warriors, who are languishing in 14th place on the ladder.

Reigning champion and second-placed Panthers are no strangers to overcoming adversity, but the loss of Nathan Cleary is a challenge they will have to overcome yet again. Despite the absence of their talismanic leaders, this blockbuster promises to be a fiercely contested affair.

Storm vs Eels

Melbourne coach Craig Bellamy will be looking for an immediate response from his side when they take on the Eels in the 4:00 p.m. clash. The Storm, coming off a loss to the Sharks, have an amazing record at Suncorp Stadium, although they were beaten by the Rabbitohs in last year’s Magic Round.

For Parramatta, the imminent return of Mitchell Moses from a foot injury could provide a timely boost as the halfback makes a late push for a State of Origin call-up. His inclusion would be a welcome addition for the Eels, who will need to be at their best to overcome the relentless Storm outfit.

Dolphins vs Tigers

The resurgent Dolphins, riding a four-game winning streak, will fancy their chances of extending their impressive run when they face the struggling Wests Tigers in the 6:25 p.m. main event. Wayne Bennett’s side could welcome back star fullback Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow, further bolstering their top-four aspirations.

The Tigers, mired in a six-game losing skid, will be desperate to turn their efforts into points. With Isaiah Papali’i suspended and Aidan Sezer sidelined, the spotlight will fall on young guns Lachie Galvin and Jahream Bula to provide the necessary spark and inspire an unlikely upset over the in-form Dolphins. This clash promises to be a tantalising contrast of fortunes as the Magic Round reaches its conclusion.

As the Magic Round concludes on Sunday, fans can expect a festival of football like no other, with pivotal battles, potential milestones, and the ever-present unpredictability that makes the NRL’s showcase event a must-watch spectacle.

Published 15-May-2024

Dolphins vs Cowboys: Captain Jesse Bromwich Discusses Lineup Choices

Dolphins Captain Jesse Bromwich provides insights into the selections for the opening round of the NRL season, with Tesi Niu, Kodi Nikorima, and Max Plath securing spots.

The Dolphins’ round one clash against the Cowboys kicks off at 3:05 p.m. on Sunday, March 10 at Suncorp Stadium.

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Jesse Bromwich provides his insights

Bromwich praises Tesi Niu’s determination and impressive pre-season efforts, which have earned him a place in the starting side. “He’s impressed not only the coaching staff but all the players as well – the determination to get those things done,” Bromwich says.

Kodi Nikorima’s utility and consistent performances last season have secured his spot, according to the captain. “He fixed a lot of positions for us last year and he’s another one… he’s had a really good pre-season.”

Bromwich also commends Nikorima’s leadership qualities, noting his willingness to share his knowledge with younger players.

Max Plath’s versatility and exceptional work ethic during the pre-season have earned him a place in Bennett’s side. Bromwich likens Plath’s style of play to Tom Gilbert, praising his energetic approach and ability to link the backs and forwards.

Sights set on another strong start

Bromwich, who plans to retire at the end of the season, has never lost a round one game in his NRL career. The skipper is is keen to maintain that record against the Cowboys.

He expects a similar level never-give-up attitude from the team that propelled them to a strong inaugural season.

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The Dolphins captain is also looking forward to the continued support from the fans, recalling the energy and enthusiasm they brought to the stands last season.

Published 07-March-2024