Huge trial boost for Dolphins

Published 8:00am 12 February 2026

The long wait is almost over. Thomas Flegler and Tom Gilbert are back for Dolphins’ Pre-Season Challenge at Kayo Stadium tonight (kick-off 7pm).

Flegler will run out against Titans after spending 677 days (22 months) recovering from a shoulder injury sustained early in the 2024 season. The powerhouse prop had surgery and there were fears for his playing future, but Dolphins now expect him to “provide instant energy” off the bench tonight.

Alongside him will be Dolphins’ forward and captain Tom Gilbert, who has been out since mid-May (nine months) after with a ruptured pectoral muscle and labrum tear.

Having both Toms back is a major boost for Dolphins who will also be introducing star signing Selwyn Cobbo to their fans tonight. The versatile winger has moved from Broncos to Redcliffe in reignite his NRL career and is already being tipped for a State of Origin spot.

English recruit Morgan Knowles also makes his Dolphins debut at lock tonight, while young Brian Pouniu earns a start at centre. Jake Averillo will be at full-back, Brad Schneider is set for his Dolphins’ debut at five-eighth jersey while John Fineanganofo is at hooker.

“The interchange will also showcase a host of young and emerging Dolphins, ready to inject speed, power and enthusiasm as the game unfolds,” says Dolphins’ website.

“A pre-season challenge that will show a glimpse of what 2026 can become.”

Dolphins’ first trial match saw a 26-16 victory over CQ Capras at Marley Brown Oval in Gladstone last weekend. Their second match of the Pre-Season Challenge is against New Zealand Warriors at Leichhardt Oval, in Sydney, on Friday February 20, kick-off 5pm.

Teams can field 28 players per match, use unlimited interchanges and get up to 15 points per game, with 12 for a win, six for a draw and bonus points for tries, offloads and line breaks. The Challenge winner gets $100,000. Only Broncos are missing the Challenge due to being in the UK for the World Club Challenge.

Dolphins start their fourth NRL season at home to Rabbitohs, led by coach Wayne Bennett, at Suncorp Stadium on Sunday March 8.