Dolphins co-captain Isaiya Katoa is booked in for surgery on a broken wrist, as Brisbane flyer Deine Mariner nears an incredible return.
Katoa left the field in the 13th minute of the 26-24 win over the Warriors on Saturday at Suncorp Stadium.
In a statement on Sunday, the Dolphins said Katoa was facing a stint on the sidelines after scans revealed he had fractured his wrist.
"Initially thought to be a dislocation, Katoa will now be booked into surgery, which will give him a better indication of a return date," the statement said.
AAP understands Katoa is expected to miss at least four weeks, depending on further consultation.
It is a blow for the third-placed Dolphins, but five-eighth Kodi Nikorima has stepped up brilliantly in his absence previously, as he did against the Warriors.
Former Penrith utility Brad Schneider, who replaced Katoa on Saturday, is set to wear the No.7 jersey for the foreseeable future.
The Broncos are preparing for the return of outside back Mariner, who underwent limb-saving surgery after the away loss to Sydney Roosters in round nine.
Coach Michael Maguire said Mariner and lock Pat Carrigan (syndesmosis) could be back as soon as the round 18 clash with Cronulla on Saturday night.
Mariner, 23, had six surgeries at Royal Prince Alfred Hospital to get his right leg in condition to fly home from Sydney after suffering compartment syndrome in his right thigh. The syndrome is a condition that restricts blood flow, and can lead to amputation if untreated.
Mariner has since undergone rehabilitation at Broncos HQ and has trained strongly. He was initially hopeful of returning in late July, but his outstanding application and attitude have him ahead of schedule.
"I tried to look at the bright side of things. You know, I was still breathing. I'm still alive," he said.
"And I think being in ICU I saw a lot of other people that don't get a second chance, so I was pretty grateful to obviously have my leg."
The Broncos, on a seven-game losing streak, are also hopeful captain Adam Reynolds (calf) and five-eighth Ezra Mam (AC joint) will be available to return against the Sharks.
