LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
The Dolphins are optimistic about the return of strike centre Herbie Farnworth before the finals, but he will not be available for hooker Jeremy Marshall King's 150th NRL match.
Farnworth demonstrated agility and speed in his recent training, leading to expectations that he would be included in the lineup for the crucial home game against Gold Coast on Sunday. Despite his well-known recovery abilities and strong mentality, the medical team is prioritizing caution and will focus on ensuring he is fit for the final match against Canberra.
"It would be nice to have him back. We've missed him, but the boys who are in the team we trust," Marshall-King stated.
Additionally, the Dolphins will welcome back five-eighth Kodi Nikorima, who was sidelined due to illness. His absence was significantly felt during the team's challenging 58-30 defeat against Manly on Saturday. Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow will continue in the centres, while Jake Averillo transitions back to centre after playing as No. 6.
The team aims to make Marshall-King's milestone match, which also marks his 50th appearance for the club, a notable occasion, especially after conceding 160 points in their last three games. The Dolphins have shown signs of fatigue recently, as many of their young forwards have had to cope with the heavy physical demands of consecutive weeks of competition, exacerbated by injuries to key players in the forward pack.