The Dolphins have announced that utility Kurt Donoghoe is anticipated to be sidelined for just one more week due to a hamstring injury incurred before their recent defeat to the South Sydney Rabbitohs.
Originally slated to start in the match against the Rabbitohs, Donoghoe was unable to play because of this injury.
In his absence, Brad Schneider took over the dummy half position.
This situation arises while Jeremy Marshall-King remains unavailable and is expected to return around Round 7, with Max Plath set to make his first NRL appearance of 2026 coming off the bench this weekend against the Gold Coast Titans.
Donoghoe's return is now anticipated in Round 3 for the upcoming game against the Cronulla Sharks, presenting a selection dilemma for Kristian Woolf.
With Marshall-King still absent, there are discussions about whether Max Plath might be considered for the number nine position, potentially facing off against Donoghoe for the role.
While Plath is likely to settle into the lock forward position, Morgan Knowles could establish himself there as well if he delivers an impressive performance against the Titans, adding uncertainty to the future placements of Plath and Donoghoe, especially with Marshall-King's eventual return.
Schneider, who made his way to the Dolphins from the Penrith Panthers during the off-season, will maintain the Dolphins' number nine jersey for this weekend's match, scheduled to kick off at 6:15 PM (AEST) on Sunday.
The Dolphins are also missing Francis Molo (suspension), Daniel Saifiti (shoulder), and Jack Bostock (ACL) from their likely top 17, alongside LJ Nonu, who is currently sidelined with a knee injury.