The Gold Coast Titans are set to face a pivotal clash against the Dolphins this weekend with mixed injury news that could shape their lineup for the match. While coach Des Hasler prepares his team for the challenge, the Titans have confirmed crucial updates on the status of two of their players—Sam Verrills and Josiah Pahulu—who have been sidelined with injuries in recent weeks.
Verrills to Miss Dolphins Clash Due to Hip Strain
The Titans will be without their starting hooker Sam Verrills when they take on the Dolphins, as he has been ruled out due to a hip strain. Verrills was notably absent from the lineup when coach Des Hasler named his 17-man squad on Tuesday, and it’s now clear that the injury will prevent the former Sydney Roosters player from taking part in this crucial encounter.
While the loss of Verrills is a blow to the Titans, the club has reassured fans that the injury is minor and not as serious as initially feared. The medical staff expects Verrills to recover quickly and be ready to make his return in Round 6 when the Titans travel to Wollongong to face the St. George Illawarra Dragons on April 11.
In Verrills’ absence, Chris Randall has been named as the starting hooker, while the Titans have also brought in the relatively unknown Sean Mullany to fill the bench spot left vacant. Mullany, who has yet to make his NRL debut, will be under pressure to deliver in a high-stakes game against the Dolphins, especially with a number of key players absent or underperforming recently.
Pahulu Set for Long-Awaited Return After Concussion Struggles
In a more positive update for the Titans, Josiah Pahulu is finally cleared to return to action after a prolonged absence due to a Category 1 concussion suffered in a pre-season clash with the Dolphins. The young forward, who had been progressing through his recovery from the concussion, has had to take extra precautions after suffering additional hits in training. This cautionary approach from the Titans’ medical staff is aimed at ensuring Pahulu’s long-term health and safety.
Pahulu has been named in jersey 22 for this weekend’s game, but coach Hasler faces a key decision: whether to throw the 20-year-old back into the NRL immediately or ease him back in through the Queensland Cup. With the Titans already facing challenges due to injuries to key players, Pahulu’s return could provide a much-needed boost to the team’s forward pack.
However, Hasler may opt for the latter option, giving Pahulu a chance to regain match fitness in the QLD Cup, while keeping his options open for future NRL selection. It’s also worth noting that Pahulu’s contract is set to expire at the end of the 2025 season, and many are speculating whether the young forward will remain with the Titans long-term or move elsewhere, given the uncertainty surrounding his future.
Jolliffe Also Returns from Injury
In another welcome boost for the Titans, forward Jaimin Jolliffe is set to make his return from injury this weekend. After missing several games due to a minor injury, Jolliffe has been named on the bench to take the place of Iszac Fa’asuamaleaui, who has been struggling with his own injury concerns. Jolliffe’s inclusion is expected to bolster the Titans’ forward depth, providing additional energy and aggression as they look to build on their recent win over the Roosters.
Jolliffe’s return will be crucial as the Titans prepare for their clash with the Dolphins, with their forward pack needing to step up to help secure a vital victory. Given the competitive nature of the NRL this season, the Titans cannot afford to drop points, especially with key players still out or recovering from injuries.
Titans Looking to Build on Momentum Against Dolphins
The Titans are coming off a strong performance in Round 4, where they defeated the Sydney Roosters 30-12, and coach Hasler will be hoping the team can carry that momentum into their upcoming clash with the Dolphins. With Verrills out and Pahulu still working his way back to full fitness, the Titans will need their remaining stars to step up and lead the charge. Jayden Campbell, Tino Fa’asuamaleaui, and Tanah Boyd will be key figures in the attack, with the trio expected to play pivotal roles in guiding the team to another win.
As the Titans continue to battle through injury setbacks and squad changes, this weekend’s game against the Dolphins will be an important test of their resilience and depth. With players like Randall, Mullany, and Jolliffe stepping into larger roles, the Titans will be looking for their squad to gel together and overcome the adversity they face on the injury front.
In summary, while the Titans may be short-handed for their clash with the Dolphins, they are hoping the return of key players like Pahulu and Jolliffe will provide the spark needed to continue their strong start to the 2025 NRL season. With Verrills expected back soon, and the squad fighting to stay competitive, the Titans are ready to prove they can succeed despite the challenges.
