QLD prop Flegler to become a Dolphin

Flegler will complete his commitments with the Broncos in 2023 and move across town to join the Dolphins at the end of the season.

He will add even more starch to a Dolphins’ pack that already bristles with the experience of Jesse and Kenny Bromwich, Felise Kaufusi, Jarrod Wallace and Mark Nicholls.

At just 23 years of age – the same age as Farnworth – Flegler has already played a State of Origin match for the Maroons and represented the Australian Prime Minister’s XIII twice.

Dolphins’ chief executive Terry Reader said the signing of Flegler was a huge boost for the club’s future.

“We are very pleased to have secured Tom on a four-year contract starting at the end of this season,” said Reader.

“He is still a young forward but already has 74 matches of NRL experience behind him, as well as representing at both State of Origin and international level.

“The Dolphins have always said that our recruitment strategy was about building a club with a strong future, rather than just for season 2023.

“The signature of Tom and Herbie Farnworth are great examples of that strategy at work.

“We are very excited about what these two players can add to the squad we have already assembled.

“It is also a huge boost for us as we get ready to play our first ever NRL match next weekend – this truly is an exhilarating time for all of the Dolphins’ members and our fans.”

Born in North Queensland, Flegler played for the Tully Tigers before joining the Broncos as a teenager.

He made his NRL debut in round one of the 2019 season, playing for the under-23 Australian side and winning the Broncos’ Rookie of the Year award in the same year.

The Dolphins will continue preparations for their debut NRL season by hosting the Roosters in a celebration of the late Arthur Beetson.