Dolphins enforcer Felise Kaufusi strongly supports the inclusion of his captain, Tom Gilbert, in the Queensland Maroons team for the upcoming State of Origin series. This comes despite Gilbert's mixed performance this season, including a recent loss in Magic Round.
Gilbert's season has been inconsistent. While he showcased strong defensive capabilities (43 tackles in the Magic Round match against the Roosters), he also faced challenges with injuries (sternum pain) and missed tackles (7). His running metres have also been below expectations, surpassing 100 meters only once this year.
Gilbert's injury history includes a dislocated shoulder and a ruptured ACL, resulting in a significant absence from the game. Additionally, the current Maroons lock, Reuben Cotter, faces a two-game suspension, creating an opportunity for Gilbert's selection. This potential selection would set up a compelling matchup against the NSW champion Liam Martin.
Kaufusi's endorsement of Gilbert emphasizes Gilbert's unwavering commitment and potential impact on the team. Kaufusi's statement conveys his belief in Gilbert's capabilities and determination to perform at the highest level, making a strong case for his inclusion.
Dolphins enforcer Felise Kaufusi has declared his skipper Tom Gilbert should “absolutely” be brought back into the Queensland Maroons’ fold, potentially setting up an enthralling clash with Blues counterpart Liam Martin.
It has taken time for the two-time State of Origin star to work back towards his best football, having missed the best part of 18 months while he recovered from a dislocated shoulder suffered in his last Maroons appearance in 2023, before rupturing his ACL upon his comeback.
The 24-year-old has endured a rollercoaster introduction to the captaincy, overseeing four-straight defeats to launch their campaign, before a three-game winning run was following by back-to-back losses once again.
Returning to his favoured position of lock in the injury absence of Max Plath (foot), Gilbert finished with 91 running metres and 43 tackles – however, he did miss seven – in the Dolphins’ 36-26 Magic Round defeat to the Roosters.Â
He partook minimally in Monday’s opposed session at Redcliffe due to sternum pain, however is not expected to be in any doubt for Thursday night’s clash with the Eels.
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Despite Gilbert’s indifferent start – running for more than 100 metres just once this year, while averaging 42 tackles a game – Kaufusi was adamant Gilbert needed to be ushered into the fray when Queensland coach Billy Slater names his squad for the series opener on May 28.
Incumbent Maroons lock and Cowboys co-captain Reuben Cotter will miss the next two games through suspension, but would still be free to come into consideration, but Gilbert could still garner a chance on the left edge against New South Wales champion, Martin.
“Absolutely, he’s one of those players you would pick no doubt, and he would go out and give it his all,” Kaufusi, who played in all three Origin games last year, said.
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