Two years spent battling depth concerns in the back half of their maiden NRL campaigns could soon be a thing of the past as the Dolphins plot to roll out one of the most lethal forward packs in the competition.
Luckless Maroons star Tom Gilbert was spotted at preseason training itching to partake in Wednesday’s field session, barking at teammates about standards, in a promising sign he will be fit to play his first top-level game since last year’s State of Origin series opener.
The 24-year-old lock suffered a dislocated shoulder that night, not returning until the 2024 trials, in which he ultimately ruptured his ACL.
Tom Gilbert goes down in the Dolphins’ trial loss against the Warriors.Credit: Shane Wenzlick/Getty
Prop Thomas Flegler also appeared in good spirits, having gone through surgery to repair nerve damage in his shoulder – sustained in round five – that put his career at risk.
According to new assistant coach Rory Kostjasyn, the pair are tracking strongly. However, no timeline has been decided for when they will announce their comebacks.
“I’ve only seen small amounts of Tom [Gilbert] – physically, he looks good. I haven’t actually had any updates on where that’s at, but everything looks good from what I’ve seen when he’s on the field,” Kostjasyn said.
“His leadership ability and the way he talks in the group, he’s obviously well respected. He’s invested and hungry for success, not only for himself individually ... but he wants the best for this group of men and this club.
“Same with Tom [Flegler]. The reports I’m hearing, everything is going well at this stage. I can imagine he’s champing at the bit. It’s a boost for everyone to see him at training and getting around the group.”