Bennett's Dolphins Experience Setback with Kaufusi Injury

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.

Melbourne Storm rocked by tragic news in lead-up to NRL finals

The Melbourne Storm will be without second-rower Felise Kaufusi for their clash against Penrith on Thursday night after the death of his father Taniela.Kaufusi travelled to America last month after his father took ill and was hospitalised, missing a month of action for the Storm and State of Origin III for Queensland.He is now set to travel back to the States after the devastating news of Taniela's death and won't play for the Storm on Thursday night."Everyone at Melbourne Storm is saddened to hear of the passing of Felise Kaufusi's father, Taniela on Saturday morning," the Storm said in a statement."Felise will miss Thursday's match against the Panthers to be with his family."Our thoughts are with the Kaufusi family during this time."Fans sent their condolences to Kaufusi on social media.

Dolphins land another Storm premiership-winner

The Dolphins have lured another Melbourne Storm champion with forward Kenny Bromwich putting pen to paper on a three-year deal.Bromwich's deal comes just weeks after brother Jesse also signed on with the incoming 17th NRL franchise.The Storm brothers will join Maroons star and premiership-winning teammate Felise Kaufusi at the Dolphins when the club's inaugural season kicks off in 2023."Kenny Bromwich is yet another player that has all the qualities we are looking for – experience, ability, toughness and a track record of winning," said Dolphins chief executive Terry Reader."Clearly we have placed some real importance on ensuring we have some reliable and experienced players on our roster for the first season."Along with his brother Jesse, Felise and also our signing from the Rabbitohs Mark Nicholls, we know we are going to be starting pre-season training with some real leadership in our squad."