The Sharks faced a challenging afternoon in a trial match against the Knights on Saturday, with a 44-18 loss, but Kade Dykes’ successful return from a lengthy knee injury provided a positive highlight. After missing the entire previous season due to an ACL issue, the fullback made a noteworthy comeback, playing approximately 50 minutes, making 10 runs for 62 meters, and enduring a couple of impactful hits at Gosford’s Industree Group Stadium.
Reflecting on his first game in nearly 18 months, Dykes expressed satisfaction with his performance and the condition of his knee, stating, “It was good to get a hit out. Obviously hot conditions, so the boys were blowing. Not the result we wanted, but we’ll look to next week.”
Despite the challenging scoreline, the 22-year-old showcased his talent, particularly in the first half, forming connections with young halves Niwhai Puru and Daniel Atkinson. Dykes emphasized that it was their first time playing together as a spine, but he remains confident in developing their connection.
“I haven’t played with Niwhai and Atko before. It was our first time together as a spine, so we were just trying to get that connection. We’ll be sweet,” Dykes said.
While acknowledging the less-than-favorable result, Dykes highlighted the trial’s value for emerging Sharks players, emphasizing the learning experience ahead of the next trial against the Bulldogs. Coach Craig Fitzgibbon is anticipated to include many senior players in the final Pre-Season Challenge fixture.
“A few of the young boys got a first crack at an NRL trial. It was good to see a lot of them stood up,” Dykes commented, underlining the developmental aspect for the emerging talents within the Sharks squad.
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