Tom Gilbert’s chances of rejoining Billy Slater’s Maroons squad have been jeopardised following a pectoral injury that forced the Dolphins captain off the field. Gilbert has previously played twice in the Origin series but has been hampered by ongoing injuries to his shoulder and knee, leaving his participation in the upcoming game one in doubt.
In a recent match, the 24-year-old was injured with just ten minutes remaining in the first half while attempting to tackle the Warriors’ Marata Niukore. His left arm became caught awkwardly during the play, leading him to immediately clutch his shoulder and pectoral area. Niukore took advantage of the opportunity, scoring the opening points of the match as Gilbert was left prone, with commentary from Kevin Walters noting that Gilbert had slipped, allowing Niukore to break through easily.
As trainers called for a substitution, Gilbert visibly expressed his desire to remain on the field, but it was evident that he needed to exit the game. “He just reached too far and couldn’t get his body in tight enough. He looks bitterly disappointed, as you would be,” Walters remarked.
Initial assessments from the medical team suggested a potential pectoral injury, which raises further concerns about Gilbert’s fitness as the Warriors extended their lead before halftime, thanks to a strong contribution from Luke Metcalf and Kurt Capewell. As it stands, the situation casts uncertainty on Gilbert’s future in the Origin selection process, adding to his concerns following a season marked by injuries.