Dolphins' Woolf asks NRL to protect Farnworth from dangerous tackles

Dolphins coach Kristian Woolf has called on the National Rugby League (NRL) to intervene and protect star center Herbie Farnworth, citing a concerning pattern of hip-drop style tackles against him. Woolf expressed fears that without intervention, it is only a matter of time before the English international sustains a serious injury.

Farnworth, a key figure for the Dolphins, has been subjected to at least five low, behind-the-tackler hits this season, prompting Woolf to urge referees to closely monitor defensive efforts targeting his player. These tackles, often involving a third defender, leave players swinging off Farnworth’s powerful runs, frequently targeting his lower body concerned about dangerous tackles.

Brisbane's Kotoni Staggs received a penalty for a hip-drop tackle on Farnworth during the Dolphins' 40-32 victory, marking the most recent instance. Other incidents include two unpenalized tackles by Newcastle players in Round 18, a dubious tackle in Round 16 against the Wests Tigers, and a contested tackle by Warriors winger Dallin Watene-Zelezniak in Round 8 Farnworth's string of dangerous tackles.

The NRL's Match Review Committee has not yet charged any player for these incidents, as disciplinary action typically requires the bulk of a tackler's body weight to land on the attacking player’s legs. Despite this, Farnworth has required medical treatment on multiple occasions after these hits.

Woolf's concerns for a "superstar"

Woolf highlighted his concern that a lack of penalties could rob fans of seeing a "genuine superstar" during the finals series. He noted that Farnworth’s size and power often lead defenders to attempt to bring him down from behind Woolf concerned about dangerous tackle. The coach contrasted these dangerous techniques with a tackle from Cronulla's Jesse Ramien, who used proper technique by grounding his knee and dragging Farnworth to the ground during the Sharks’ 66-0 win.

Farnworth, at 26, has had another strong season for the Redcliffe-based club, which operates in Australia's premier rugby league competition. His performance has fueled speculation about his future, with reports suggesting he may explore the open market on November 1 and potentially join the Sydney Roosters for the 2028 season speculation he will head to open market.

Future beyond Dolphins

While acknowledging the external interest in Farnworth, Woolf remains optimistic the Dolphins can secure a deal to retain him before the Rugby League World Cup in October. This situation adds another layer of intrigue to the Dolphins’ season, as they aim to keep a key player amid a significant injury risk international rugby news.

Woolf emphasized that all players are aware of the hip-drop tackle's dangers, and its prevalence on Farnworth is a serious issue that demands attention. His proactive stance aims to safeguard one of the league's elite talents from potentially career-altering injuries elite players in our competition.