Felise Kaufusi, the Dolphins forward, will not be available for the highly anticipated Brisbane derby against the Brisbane Broncos next weekend. This is due to a three-match suspension he received from the NRL match review committee. During Friday's 36-20 win over the Newcastle Knights, Kaufusi was sin-binned and put on report twice. He was put on report for a high shot and handed his marching orders five minutes later for a late hit on Newcastle halfback Jackson Hastings, who was sent for an HIA due to whiplash.The NRL match review committee charged Kaufusi with a Grade 2 charge for "dangerous contact" on Saturday morning. As this was his third offence, he received a three-match suspension on an early plea.
Knights coach Adam O'Brien stated in the post-match press conference that Kaufusi's late shot probably warranted a sin bin, but he refused to comment on whether he thought Hastings should have been forced off for an HIA. Meanwhile, Knights centre Lucas Dylan received a $1500 fine for his crusher tackle on Euan Aitken.When asked about Kaufusi's availability for the next match, Dolphins coach Wayne Bennett stated that he was more worried about the veteran forward's handling errors. He jokingly added that Kaufusi should stay out of his way for a couple of days as he won't be happy to see his face.The Dolphins, who have started their season with three consecutive wins, are now preparing for the match against Bennett's former club at Suncorp Stadium next weekend. Bennett said that there was no pressure this week, and the derby was the easiest game in the world to coach. The match is scheduled for Friday, March 24, at 8 pm AEDT.
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