Gilbert Eyes Maroons Recall After Refining Game
Dolphins forward Tom Gilbert is firmly in contention for a Queensland Maroons jersey, spurred on by the inspirational return of teammate Thomas Flegler and a renewed focus on eliminating crucial errors from his game. With incumbent Maroons lock Pat Carrigan sidelined due to injury for the second State of Origin clash in Melbourne, a prime opportunity has opened up for Gilbert to press his case with another strong performance against the North Queensland Cowboys this Sunday.
Gilbert has been a vocal advocate for his desire to represent Queensland, stating, “I always want to play for Queensland. I have always been vocal about it and it has been one of the driving reasons why I keep turning up each day and keep coming back from injuries.” The Dolphins co-captain was notably absent from the Maroons squad that fell 22-20 in the opening Origin encounter in Sydney.
Reflecting on his omission, Gilbert admitted, “I was disappointed not to play and get picked but the more I reflected on it the more I realised there were probably too many errors in my game. Errors are a part of footy, but mine were in crucial times.”
This self-awareness has led to a significant shift in Gilbert’s recent form. The fiery edge/middle forward has drastically reduced his mistakes, committing just two errors in his last four appearances. Crucially, all of these games have resulted in victories for the Dolphins, signalling a return to his best form as he prepares to play his 12th consecutive NRL game of the season.
“I have been really happy with last four weeks and the consistency around that and minimising those errors,” Gilbert commented. “My confidence in my football ability makes me confident that… I will be there in a Maroons jersey eventually.” He also noted the milestone he’s approaching: “This weekend will be the most games of footy I have played in a season in four years.”
Gilbert credits a shift in his approach and the support of his coaches for his improved consistency. “I probably needed a realisation of how I am going to get back to my best footy. I’m lucky I have had really good discussions with my coaches and my role coming off the bench now really helps me.”
A Journey Back to Origin Contention
Gilbert boasts a strong State of Origin pedigree, having featured in two series wins in 2022 and 2023. However, a subsequent run of three season-ending injuries saw him miss eight potential Origin matches, derailing his representative aspirations.
The resurgence of Thomas Flegler, who earned a recall to the Queensland side for the first Origin match after a three-year hiatus and nearly two years sidelined with a shoulder injury, has served as a significant source of inspiration for Gilbert. “It is inspirational because he could have easily gone away from footy but chose to stick it out and take a tougher route,” Gilbert remarked. “For someone like that to get the reward after a long journey back, I can only imagine what that feeling and emotion is like. It is something I would love to have one day. It would be emotional. It would be everything.”
Maroons selectors hold Gilbert in high regard, and he is now firmly in the mix to fill the void left by Carrigan. “Things like that do cross your mind but I have just got to worry about myself. If I can play my best and minimise the errors I can potentially be in the frame,” he stated.
Teammate Also in the Mix
Adding to the strong Dolphins representation in Maroons discussions is Kulikefu Finefeuiaki. The dynamic back-rower, who served as the Maroons’ 20th man in the opening game, is now considered a strong chance of earning a full debut following a series of powerhouse performances in the NRL.
“I know Kuli is chomping at the bit,” Gilbert said of his teammate. “He talks about what he is learning in the camps and that is a huge bonus for his development and us as a group. I know if he gets that chance he will be running hard.”
Gilbert’s renewed focus on minimising errors, coupled with his proven Origin experience, positions him as a compelling candidate for a Maroons recall as the State of Origin series heats up. His journey back from injury and his dedication to refining his game underscore his determination to once again represent his state on the biggest stage.
