Key Injuries and Comebacks
Two key players, Tom Flegler and Tom Gilbert, are set to make their long-awaited returns for the Dolphins, marking a significant boost for the club’s aspirations of competing in the NRL finals for the first time. Their comebacks are not just about personal triumphs but also about reinforcing the team’s strength as they prepare for the upcoming season.
Tom Flegler’s Long Road Back
Tom Flegler will make his return after an extensive recovery period following nerve damage to his left shoulder. This marks his first appearance in 677 days, which is a testament to the challenges he has faced. The trial match against Gold Coast on Thursday night is a crucial step in his journey back to full fitness. For Flegler, this game represents more than just a return; it is a moment of reconnection with the sport he loves.
Tom Gilbert’s Journey
Meanwhile, Tom Gilbert, the Dolphins’ captain, is also set to return after a series of injuries that have kept him out of the game for extended periods. He last played in round 11 of 2025 before undergoing surgery for a ruptured pectoral muscle and labrum tear. This was after missing all of 2024 due to a knee reconstruction and most of 2023 because of a shoulder injury. Despite these setbacks, Gilbert remains optimistic about his future with the team.
Playing Together for the First Time
Interestingly, Flegler and Gilbert have never played together at the Dolphins. The only time they have been on the same senior side was during the first game of the 2023 State of Origin series for the Maroons. Now, both players are hoping to play many club games together, starting with the trial match at Kayo Stadium.
“We obviously both haven’t played a lot of footy for a while and sometimes trial matches are about getting out there and getting a feel,” Gilbert said. “For both of us, any little taste of playing again is a really special moment and something that I don’t take for granted. I am going to enjoy it.”
Supporting Each Other
Gilbert is also looking forward to running out alongside Flegler, although he does not expect miracles. “There is no expectation on Tommy and the level he can get back to. We know he will get there eventually and we know it will take time,” he said. “It’s not an easy thing what Tom has been through physically and mentally. We know once he comes out the other side of all the challenges… he will be that great footy player we know.”
A Positive Outlook
Gilbert emphasized the importance of support over pressure. “We won’t place pressure on him but we will support him and encourage him. There will be mistakes but (he) will be bounce back, go again and we will have one of the best props in the game playing for us.”
Despite his own challenges, Gilbert reflected on the positive aspects of his recent experiences. “I was lucky last year that after my big layoff, I got back into the routine and grind,” he said. “I had a bit more of a feel for it and this pre-season I was able to do full training bar a couple of sessions. I feel more confident than I have in years both physically and mentally.”
Looking Ahead
“I am recharged. I love footy. I didn’t love it for a while but now I am excited for what the future holds,” Gilbert added. He plans to line up in the middle and in the back-row this season, taking on different roles each week. “Each week I’ll have different roles but I just want to play great footy and lead the team into a good season,” he said.
