David Fifita is targeting a long-awaited return in Gold Coast’s fiery round 19 clash against his former club, Brisbane, a match that may shape the next chapter of his stop-start NRL career.
The $1 million-a-season forward hasn’t played since April 26, when the Titans were thumped 50-18 by the Cowboys. Dumped to reserve grade by coach Des Hasler and plagued by a lingering ankle issue, Fifita’s absence has become one of the game’s great mysteries.
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“He’s been training with us for the last two or three weeks and is moving well,” teammate Jacob Alick-Wienke said on Wednesday. “If you went out and watched him, you’d think he’d be in this week.”
‘His ankle is touch and go’ – questions remain despite return talk
While scans and exploratory surgery have shown minimal damage, Fifita has reportedly struggled to trust the club’s medical handling of the injury, fuelling speculation over his reluctance to return.
Hasler revealed this week that Fifita had undergone a “procedure” last Friday, but it turned out to be nothing more than a routine medical review.
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“I think they’re being cautious with it,” Alick-Wienke added. “His ankle is touch and go. I think it’s all on his feel and how he’s going.”
Fifita has told those close to him that he’s ready, but whether Hasler selects him for the July 13 derby remains uncertain. With the Titans now anchored to the bottom of the ladder, and rival clubs quietly circling, the showdown against Brisbane could prove a career-defining moment for the enigmatic 25-year-old.