A top-eight battle awaits with the Newcastle Knights hosting the Dolphins, with both teams having to contend with the loss of their Origin stars.<\/p>\n
Newcastle skipper Kalyn Ponga has been recalled at fullback by the Maroons, while strike centre Bradman Best has been called up by the Blues.<\/p>\n
The Dolphins will once again be without a host of Queensland stars with Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow, Selwyn Cobbo, Max Plath and Tom Flegler in Billy Slater’s squad, while in-form back Jack Bostock has earnt a debut with the Blues.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Both teams come into this game with hard-fought wins, with the Dolphins pipping the Warriors in the final moments of a classic match 26-24, while the Knights were made to battle hard against Wests Tigers, also stealing a late 12-6 victory.<\/p>\n
Team News<\/p>\n
Knights: Fletcher Sharpe again slides to fullback to cover for Maroons star Kalyn Ponga while Fletcher Hunt comes into the centres for Bradman Best, who has earned a NSW Blues recalls. Sandon Smith moves from the bench to five-eighth and Harrison Graham is added to the six-man bench along with Francis Manuleleua<\/p>\n
Dolphins: The dynamic Trai Fuller again steps up at fullback with Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow in Maroons camp while Tevita Naufahu and Felise Kaufusi also join the starting side for Selwyn Cobbo and Thomas Flegler. The loss of halfback Isaiya Katoa to a fractured wrist sees Brad Schneider wear the No.7. Prop Tom Gilbert (throat) is back after missing the Warriors game and Jake Averillo comes into the centres after returning from hand surgery through Queensland Cup last week. Averillo fills the void left by Jack Bostock, who will make his Origin debut for NSW. Brian Pouniu and Sebastian Su’a have been added to the bench.<\/p>\n
Stat Attack<\/p>\n
The Knights have won their last five games against the Dolphins.
\nThe Dolphins have scored over 35 points per game in their eight-game winning streak.
\nKnights second-rower Dylan Lucas has scored seven tries in his last six games.
\nDolphins winger Jamayne Isaako has scored seven tries in six games against the Knights.
\nThe Knights have won only three of their last 17 games without Kalyn Ponga.<\/p>\n
Stats supplied by David Middleton, League Information Services,\u00a0author of the\u00a0official annual of the NRL.<\/a><\/p>\n