The Dolphins have kept breakout forward Connelly Lemuelu out of the Perth Bears’ clutches, securing the backrower on a contract extension to the end of 2027.
Lemuelu had been a free agent since November 1, opening him up to a potential raid from the NRL’s newest outfit, but will instead vie for a place on the edge with Kulikefu Finefuieaki and the returning Tom Gilbert.
Connelly Lemuelu runs the ball in a match against the Eels in Sydney.Credit: Getty Images
Max Plath, who joined Gilbert (ruptured pectoral) in the casualty ward for much of last season with an ACL injury, could join the second-row battle following the addition of Super League lock Morgan Knowles.
Lemuelu scored nine tries from 20 games in 2025, while averaging 93 running metres an outing. He could still be in the sights of the Papua New Guinea Chiefs from November as the ambitious venture prepare for their 2028 debut, but insisted he never entertained the option of moving to the Bears under coach Mal Meninga.
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“I just feel like it’s something that works for both parties,” Lemuelu said, when asked why only a one-year deal.
“At this stage of my career, I came off the bench last year and am pushing for that starting spot next year. I’ve made it a goal of mine to be an elite backrower, and hopefully, I can use this year to do that and become a starter.
“Then we’ll go from there and hopefully extend my time a bit longer. It’s my preference to stay at this club, I’ve been here since the start and I want to stay here for a long time.”
Lemuelu’s new deal offsets the loss of Oryn Keeley to the Melbourne Storm.