If not for a bold gamble to venture into the unknown and away from rugby league’s most dominant juggernaut, Katoa’s meteoric ascent may never have eventuated.
Dolphins halfback Isaiya Katoa is set to lead his team into their first preliminary final against the Sydney Roosters. Katoa previously made the decision to leave the Penrith Panthers' system after receiving a call from head coach Wayne Bennett, taking a spot in the Dolphins' top 30 squad rather than waiting for an opportunity behind Nathan Cleary.
Katoa made his World Cup debut for Tonga at age 18 while still completing high school exams. Despite the Dolphins initially recruiting experienced halves Anthony Milford, Kodi Nikorima, and Sean O'Sullivan, Bennett placed his trust in the young playmaker to steer the NRL club.
Get the latest sports news and top stories from MySportsTab delivered straight to your inbox.
No spam. Just the latest sports news and updates.
