Bennett: Best of ‘Val Meninga’ yet to come for Dolphins
Ahead of the upcoming showdown with Brisbane at the Gabba, Wayne Bennett has shown his unwavering confidence in Dolphins’ rising star, Valynce Te Whare. Despite their recent loss to Parramatta, the 22-year-old former rugby union player has retained his spot in the squad. In a bid to boost the team’s performance, electric fullback Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow will replace the out-of-form Euan Aitken in the centers alongside Te Whare.
Te Whare has quickly become a fan-favorite, thanks to his impressive performances on the field. Having scored two tries on his debut against Cronulla in round 10, he has showcased his versatility by playing in various positions, including center, lock, and off the interchange bench. Even in a disappointing team display against Parramatta, Te Whare managed to run for a career-high 142 meters and score a try. His nickname, ‘Val Meninga,’ is a testament to his blockbusting style of play.
Recognizing Te Whare’s progress, coach Wayne Bennett stated, Val has done a really good job actually. He can do better yet but he’s learning. Rugby league is not his game. Rugby union was his game but he’s done a really good job with himself the last 18 months to come here and make the transition. I just like what he brings. The players like playing with him.
In his efforts to revamp the team’s performance, Bennett has made significant changes to the lineup. Kodi Nikorima will move to fullback, allowing Tabuai-Fidow to take on the role of center. Explaining his decision, Bennett said, We just need to be a bit better than we have been in the centers and Euan is a bit out of form. I had to do something and Hammer has done a great job for Queensland in the centers. Kodi was tremendous for us for a couple of weeks when Hammer didn’t play so it will work for us.
The Dolphins will also welcome back hooker Jeremy Marshall-King, who has been out with a shoulder injury. Bennett praised Marshall-King, highlighting his integral role in the team. He’s been in our top three players all season. We haven’t had him for the last month, so it is good to have him back.
The Dolphins have faced a setback with three consecutive losses, causing them to slip out of the top eight. However, Bennett remains optimistic about their chances of returning to winning ways. We are aiming to get ourselves back into that place, he said. Maybe the expectations have got to them a little bit. The second half against Parramatta was pretty good for us, and we just want them to take that into this game, and we will be back on track.
The Dolphins will need to find their rhythm and reclaim their earlier form to secure a victory against Brisbane. With Bennett’s faith in Te Whare and the team’s determination to bounce back, fans can expect an exciting match at the Gabba.
