In a tightly contested trial match, the New Zealand Warriors fell 38‑34 to the Dolphins, with forward Jackson Ford receiving a sin‑bin for a high tackle. The incident has put Ford’s availability for the season opener in the hands of the NRL’s match review committee.
Warriors’ coaching staff are awaiting the committee’s decision, hoping Ford will be cleared to start the regular season. The outcome will determine whether the club can rely on his presence in the front row from the outset.