Star second-rower signs Dolphins extension
Sebastian Tan |
The Dolphins’ hopes of replicating their sparkling NRL campaign have been boosted with representative second-rower Kulikefu Finefeuiaki re-signing with the club until the end of 2029.
Finefeuiaki was off-contract at the conclusion of the 2027 season, meaning he would be free to negotiate with rival teams including the tax-free PNG Chiefs on November 1.
But after a stellar season where the 22-year-old established himself as a crucial member of the club’s forward pack, and earned his State of Origin debut, the Dolphin inked a deal that keeps him at the Brisbane-based side.
The re-signing comes after the team already locked down star forwards Tom Gilbert, Kurt Donoghoe and Max Plath until at least the end of 2028.
“What I think has been most impressive about Kuli’s rise in our squad has been his transformation as a player,” Dolphins chief executive Terry Reader said.
“His work to turn himself into an 80-minute player on the edge who now plays State of Origin has been extremely impressive.
“We see Kuli as one of the cornerstones of our pack and are excited about what he can do for this club not only in this finals series, but over the next few years.”
After making his NRL debut for North Queensland in 2023, Finefeuiaki moved south in 2025 and has enjoyed regular minutes since.
This season, Finefeuiaki’s 843 tackles and average of 150 run metres have helped the Dolphins secure a first preliminary final berth, where they will face either Cronulla or the Sydney Roosters next Friday.
The two-Test Tonga international will look to produce a dazzling performance at Suncorp Stadium to push his case for a spot in their World Cup squad.
Finefeuiaki’s renewed contract also follows outside back Tevita Naufahu and half Brad Schneider re-signing on Wednesday.
Although the back-rowers’ signatures will provide some certainty, the Dolphins are yet to hammer out agreements with stars Jack Bostock, Herbie Farnworth, Selwyn Cobbo and Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow, who are off-contract at the end of next season.
They will be free to explore the league’s open market if they don’t strike a deal with the club before November 1.
AAP