The Dolphins have announced that their key halfback, Isaiya Katoa, will miss the upcoming match against the Wests Tigers due to injury.
Katoa reportedly sustained a knee injury early in the first half during the game against the Sydney Roosters. He continued to play despite the discomfort and received an early break with eight minutes remaining, as the match was already decided.
The injury is believed to be a minor MCL sprain, which can lead to a recovery period of one to two weeks. However, the club has not yet clarified when he might return to action.
This season, Katoa has been a standout performer for the newest team in the NRL, contributing significantly with 11 try assists and 12 line break assists. His combination of speed and exceptional playmaking skills has enabled him to create scoring opportunities for his teammates.
As a crucial player in the Dolphins' drive for their first finals appearance, the club is likely to prioritize his health and take every necessary step to ensure he is ready for the latter part of the season.
Kulikefu Finefeuiaki, a backrower for the Queensland Maroons, is set to make his comeback for the Dolphins, despite being named on the extended bench. Finefeuiaki made a brief appearance in Game 2 of the State of Origin series and is now cleared to rejoin the team.
Jack Bostock will also re-enter the lineup after being left unused on the NSW Blues' six-man bench. Meanwhile, star Maroons players Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow, Max Plath, and Selwyn Cobbo will sit out to rest after their impressive performance in Queensland colors on Wednesday, which led to a decider in Brisbane for Game 3.