Match Preview: Round 22 – Warriors v Dolphins
The Dolphins are back and ready to make waves across the ditch as they take on the Warriors in Auckland this Friday.
With the bye behind them and key players returning, the Dolphins are looking to hold their place in the top eight and book a maiden finals berth.
The Warriors will be looking to bounce back after last week's loss on home soil, where they’ve built a strong fortress in 2025, boasting a 6-3 record in New Zealand.
Meanwhile, the Dolphins are still chasing their first win against the Warriors in New Zealand since joining the league.
The Dolphins are 1-1 following a bye this season while the Warriors have not lost back-to-back games in 2025.
Team changes
Felise Kaufusi returns from an MCL injury that has sidelined him since Round 15 to co-captain the team alongside halfback Isaiya Katoa.
Kaufusi’s leadership and presence will be invaluable against a tough Warriors pack and boasts an undefeated record with the 'C' next to his name (3-0).
Dynamic five-eighth Kodi Nikorima, whose early comeback brings even more experience and spark to the spine, sees Jake Averillo shift to the wing and Tevita Naufahu move to the extended bench.
Mark Nicholls is back in for the trip to Auckland after missing in Round 20 with a Head Injury Assessment.
The Warriors enter Round 22 missing key players Chanel Harris-Tavita, James Fisher-Harris and Wayde Egan.
Te Maire Martin moves into five-eighth role, Demitric Vaimauga earns his first start in the front row and Sam Healey will line up at hooker in just his third NRL appearance.
Clash of the week
Friday’s feature matchup is a fullback face-off between two electric No.1s, Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow and Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad, in a contest that could shape the outcome of the game.
Tabuai-Fidow, has been in sensational form this season. He enters Round 22 with 17 tries, including 10 in his last five outings and is averaging 176 running metres per game. His explosive speed, support play, and finishing ability make him a dangerous player in this game.
On the other side, Nicoll-Klokstad continues to be a dependable and tireless contributor for the Warriors. Averaging 198 running metres per game, Nicoll-Klokstad plays a crucial role in setting the tone for the Warriors’ sets with his kick returns and defensive efforts. While he’s only crossed for one try this season, his positioning, communication, and effort areas are vital to the Warriors' structure.
