The Dolphins’ spine has never looked sharper or more competitive heading into 2026. With elite young playmakers, seasoned organisers, breakout utilities and genuine role-switchers all in the mix, the race for the two coveted halves jerseys is shaping as one of the biggest storylines of the entire preseason.
And at the centre of it all are the incumbents, the men who were first picked in 2025.
Isaiya Katoa
Isaiya Katoa continues to rise at a remarkable pace. Composed, skilful and already one of the most exciting young halves in the NRL, the Tongan maestro enters 2026 as a genuine walk-up starter.
His game management has matured, his combination with the Dolphins’ spine keeps improving and he remains the player the coaching staff trust when the pressure is on.
Katoa enjoyed a standout 2025 campaign, earning Best Back, Players’ Player, and captaining the side. He was also rewarded with selection for Tonga at the Pacific Championships, further underlining his growing reputation on the international stage.
Statistically, his impact was undeniable finishing the season with 23 try assists, consistently pulling the strings in attack.
Kodi Nikorima
Alongside him sits the second incumbent, Kodi Nikorima.
A Kiwi international and one of the smartest footballers in the competition, Nikorima’s organisation, short-side vision and calmness under fatigue were critical to the Dolphins’ attacking flow in 2025. Creative, consistent and clutch, he’s the type of half who steadies the ship when games turn chaotic.
Together, Katoa and Nikorima were the first-picked pairing last season. But keeping those jerseys? That’s where things get fascinating.
The pressure builds and the challenge intensifies in 2026.
Brad Schneider
Brad Schneider arrives with a booming kicking game, strong composure and the versatility to play 6, 7 or even 9. His ability to control tempo and handle high-pressure moments makes him a genuine threat to crack the starting side or emerge as one of the most valuable No.14s in the competition.
Signed on a one-year deal, the 24-year-old will be determined to make his mark immediately and be impossible to ignore.
Jake Averillo
Jake Averillo adds another dynamic layer. His speed, running threat and ability to slot into the halves, centres or fullback give the Dolphins a genuine strike option in the spine.
Kurt Donoghoe
Kurt Donoghoe is rapidly becoming one of the most intriguing pieces of the puzzle.
Fresh off playing five-eighth for Fiji at the Pacific Championships, Donoghoe showed he’s far more than a middle-forward workhorse. Competitive, adaptable and tough, he can cover 6, 7, 9, 13 and just about anywhere in between.
If the Dolphins want a No.14 who can reshape a game the moment he enters it, Donoghoe fits the brief perfectly and his emergence adds real heat to the halves battle.
And Then There’s Hooker… The Final Piece
Jeremy Marshall-King led the ruck in 2025, but the Dolphins will be without the Kiwi International in the opening rounds of the season after he underwent knee surgery.
The question is: who steps up?
Donoghoe can play hooker.
Schneider can play hooker.
Max Plath can play hooker.
Averillo provides cover for the halves.
The flexibility is undeniable.
Add in young gun, development player John Fineanganofo. Making his way up through the levels of Rugby League and is ready to step up when needed.
Which means the halves race isn’t just about who wears 6 and 7 - it’s about constructing the right spine across 6, 7, 9 and 14. The combination that best balances kicking, control, creativity and coverage will win out.
One thing is clear.
The Dolphins aren’t short on playmaking weapons.
The real challenge? Narrowing it down.
Who would you start in the halves and at hooker for Round 1?
