Jeremy Marshall-King's move from Canterbury to the Dolphins has taken him within one victory of an NRL grand final.
The 30-year-old hooker finally won a final in his 168th NRL appearance, helping the Dolphins defeat the Warriors 26-16 in last week's qualifying final.
That result was the club's eighth comeback from eight points or more this season. The Dolphins now face the Sydney Roosters or Cronulla in the preliminary final.
Marshall-King became Canterbury's 2022 player of the year after playing all 24 matches, scoring five tries and averaging 39 tackles.
His opportunity changed after Canterbury agreed to sign Reed Mahoney, prompting Marshall-King to join the Dolphins on a two-year deal during 2022.
"It was in my best interests to come here," Marshall-King said.
He also credited Wayne Bennett, Felise Kaufusi, Jesse Bromwich and Kenny Bromwich for attracting him to the Dolphins.
Although the club pursued Harry Grant and Brandon Smith, neither joined, with Grant retained by Melbourne and Smith signing for the Roosters.
Marshall-King has overcome injuries, returned to New Zealand's side and established himself among the game's leading hookers.
"It's taken me a long time to get there and I just pretty much soaked it in and enjoyed that moment, especially back home in New Zealand. It was something special," he said.
He believes the Dolphins can win the premiership, while coach Kristian Woolf has strengthened his confidence and supported him beyond football.