Tue Sep 17 05:43:45 UTC 2024: ## Dolphins Star Trai Fuller Ruled Out for NRL Season Start After ACL Tear

Dolphins fullback Trai Fuller’s breakout NRL season has been abruptly halted, with the 27-year-old suffering a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) during the Queensland Cup preliminary final. The injury will keep Fuller sidelined for at least nine months, ruling him out of the start of the 2025 NRL season.

Fuller, who signed a two-year deal with the Dolphins earlier this year, impressed in his 11 appearances for the NRL side, scoring four tries, making 67 tackle busts and eight line-breaks. His impact was such that Queensland star Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow moved to centre to accommodate him.

“Trai is a valuable member of our club and our squad and he will be looked after,” Dolphins CEO Terry Reader said. “We will get him back on the field as fast as medically possible.”

Fuller’s injury is a blow for the Dolphins, who are hoping to build on their strong debut season. Despite missing the finals, Fuller remained dedicated to his club, returning to play for Redcliffe in the Queensland Cup preliminary final. He was instrumental in their 17-16 victory over the Northern Pride, scoring a try and setting up another.

“He couldn’t wait to get back and play in that grand final qualifier and opened the scoring with a wonderful try to get them on the board,” Reader said. “He also went into dummy-half and put a great ball over for Val Te Whare to run 70 metres and score. It shows how much the club means to him, whether it be with the NRL side or in the Queensland Cup.”

Fuller’s commitment to the Dolphins has earned him admiration from the club and fans alike. “Trai is just a great example of coming through the pathways,” Reader said. “He has been in our system since before we got the NRL licence, and after being on a train-and-trial (deal) has shown what he could do in the NRL since he got his opportunity.”

Fuller is expected to return to the field mid-season in 2025, providing a boost to the Dolphins as they look to establish themselves as a force in the NRL.

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