Breakout star kept out of Bears’ clutches as Cobbo clue revealed

The Dolphins have kept breakout forward Connelly Lemuelu out of the Perth Bears’ clutches, securing the backrower on a contract extension to the end of 2027.

Lemuelu had been a free agent since November 1, opening him up to potential raid from the NRL’s newest outfit, but will instead vie for a place on the edge with Kulikefu Finefuieaki and the returning Tom Gilbert.

Connelly Lemuelu runs the ball in a match against the Eels in Sydney.Credit: Getty Images

Max Plath, who joined Gilbert (ruptured pectoral) in the casualty ward for much of last season with an ACL injury, and could join the second row battle following the addition of Super League lock Morgan Knowles.

Lemuelu’s new deal offsets the loss of Oryn Keeley to the Melbourne Storm.

Lemuelu scored nine tries from 20 games in 2025, while averaging 93 running metres an outing. He could still be in the sights of the Papua New Guinea Chiefs from November as the ambitious venture prepare for their 2028 debut.

“Connelly’s performances have improved every year and that is just one of the reasons we were so keen to extend his contract,” Dolphins chief executive Terry Reader said.

“He is a dangerous player on the edge for us, and with 85 NRL matches to his name now, we believe his best football is ahead of him.”

Lemuelu’s extension comes as recruit Selwyn Cobbo, signed until the end of 2026, was spotted training at right centre – free of the hamstring issues which plagued the back end of his time at the Brisbane Broncos.

More to come.

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