Felise Kaufusi will make a surprise return to the field from suspension in the Hostplus Cup for the Redcliffe Dolphins this Saturday.
Kaufusi was overlooked by Queensland Origin selectors this week after finishing a three-match NRL suspension and the NRL Dolphins are on a bye.
Instead Kaufusi will suit up for Redcliffe in his first game in the Hostplus Cup for many years in an effort to build some match fitness.
Kaufusi will play against reigning premiers Norths Devils in a match to be played at Redcliffe’s Kayo Stadium.
He will be joined in the team by fellow Dolphin Tesi Niu, who is also after some match practice.
The inclusion of the NRL pair will bring about some excitement for the game, which is already a fierce local derby between last year’s Hostplus Cup grand final teams.
Redcliffe are coming off a good win over the Brisbane Tigers on Saturday night, their seventh win in as many games.
That 38-22 victory moved the Dolphins into third place on the ladder after starring performances from Jeremiah Simbiken and Max Plath.
The match was in the balance with 10 minutes remaining with the Dolphins leading 26-22 before tries to Brenton Baira and Sheldon Pitama sealed the win.
Redcliffe Dolphins team v Norths Devils, Kayo Stadium, Saturday 5pm
1. Trai Fuller
2. Tesi Niu
3. Robert Jennings
4. Jack Bostock
5. Brenton Baira
6. Cameron Cullen
7. Cody Hunter
8. Tyson Cleal
9. Sheldon Pitama
10. Dunamis Lui (c)
11. Felise Kaufusi
12. Jeremiah Simbiken
13. Max Plath
Interchange
14. Ayden Hoad
15. Poasa Faamausili
16. Ryan Jackson
17. Mason Teague
