English-born prop signs for NRL new boys The Dolphins

The Dolphins will become the 17th team in the NRL in 2023 and so far they’ve made some big splashes.

They will have a star-studded coaching team in legendary Wayne Bennett and three-time Grand Final-winning coach Kristian Woolf, who will serve as assistant coach.

They haven’t just made huge staff signings, the Queensland-based side have made some big-time player acquisitions including former Kiwi captain Jesse Bromwich and his brother Kenny.

The side have also recruited former Super League player and England international Oliver Gildart.

And it was revealed on Wednesday that Gildart will be joined by English-born Elijah Rasmussen who The Dolphins have recruited as part of their five-year plan.

Rasmussen is only 17-years-old and has been playing his rugby for Westlake Boys High School, but he’s certainly made an impression with the big forward agreeing to this Dolphins deal.

It’s been reported by The Mole that he’s scheduled to play colts (academy) and Queensland Cup rugby in 2023 before a shift to join The Dolphins first team as he grows and develops.

This is massively exciting news for English rugby league and Rasmussen could follow in the footsteps of another young English forward who announced himself on the scene in the NRL, Sam Burgess.

Rasmussen will make his own way in the game though having moved to New Zealand when he was a lot younger and therefore he’s already represented the Maori rugby union side at under 18s.

This shift to league is now confirmed with his signing to The Dolphins and he’s one to keep an eye on for the future – with his long-term international allegiance in the 13-man game yet to be confirmed.