The resurgence of four key players has significantly impacted the Dolphins, contributing to their success in the NRL playoffs.
Tom Gilbert, Thomas Flegler, Max Plath, and Jack Bostock return from long-term injuries that sidelined them for a staggering 125 games combined.
The Dolphins will face the Warriors in the qualifying final, marking their first postseason appearance, a notable achievement considering the players' absence last year.
Gilbert, the co-captain and a cornerstone of the team, faced multiple injuries over three seasons, missing 51 matches.
Flegler struggled with shoulder nerve damage, which kept him off the field for 44 games in 2024 and 2025.
With a foot injury and double MCL and ACL ruptures last year, Plath missed 17 matches, while Bostock's ACL tear in 2024 resulted in a 13-match absence stretching into this season.
Coach Kristian Woolf praised the perseverance of the quartet. He noted, "I am very proud of them. They have all had their own little challenges and journey through injury in particular."
Gilbert's resilience has been particularly notable, as he mentioned that this year was the first time he completed a full season without a major injury.
Flegler returned strong, having played all three Origin matches and 19 NRL games, demonstrating remarkable resilience through his recovery.
Plath and Bostock have also thrived, with Plath playing all three Origin matches and Bostock debuting for NSW in their decider win.
Woolf commended their contributions, stating, "They all came back into the team and were able to play good footy really early and improve from there."
He emphasized that their return has been crucial to the team's playoff success, deserving significant credit for their impact.