With the 2026 National Rugby League season fast approaching, the anticipation is palpable. In this 'Year of the Horse', could a true 'dark horse' team emerge and surprise us all? The past fortnight's trials have hinted at a year full of movement across the ladder, and the race for the final eight could be tighter than ever. But here's where it gets controversial: while some are touting the Dolphins as the team to watch, others are skeptical. Since their inception into the NRL in 2023, the Dolphins have yet to appear in a finals series, just slipping out of the race last year, finishing ninth. However, with a strong lineup of young talent, particularly in their spine, and a depth across the park that could be the best in the league, the Dolphins may just be the dark horse that makes a surprising run at the title. Ex-player Denan Kemp agrees, highlighting their backline and forward pack as one of the best in the league when you include depth. But is this enough to propel them into the finals? And this is the part most people miss: while the Dolphins have a strong lineup, their head coach Kristian Woolf is contracted until the end of this season. A maiden finals appearance would only strengthen his long-term security at Redcliffe and further solidify his position at the club. So, will the Dolphins make a surprising run at the title in 2026? Or will they fall short of expectations? Only time will tell. But one thing is for sure: with the right combination of talent, depth, and coaching, the Dolphins could be the dark horse that surprises us all.
