Jack Bostock Wants to Stay with Dolphins
Jack Bostock, a 23‑year‑old centre for the Dolphins, has expressed a desire to extend his contract and stay with the club as it climbs the NRL ladder. After a breakthrough 2026 season, a State of Origin appearance and a return from injury, Bostock sees the Dolphins as the place to win a premiership…
By Felo News Desk · Published
Jack Bostock, the Dolphins’ 23‑year‑old centre, has made it clear that he wants to stay with the club as it continues its rapid rise in the NRL. After a breakout 2026 campaign, a State of Origin debut for New South Wales and a return from a serious knee injury, Bostock says the Dolphins are the only place he sees himself building a premiership‑winning future.
From Development List to NRL Star
Bostock’s journey began in 2023 when he signed a development contract with the Dolphins. The young player, who had shone in the Illawarra Steelers SG Ball and NSW under‑19s teams, was recruited after a meeting with Dolphins’ foundation coach Wayne Bennett, former recruitment chief Peter O’Sullivan and his father, former Balmain Tigers winger Josh Bostock. At the time, the Dolphins were still assembling a squad and had not yet fielded a full 13‑man side.
Despite the uncertainty, Bostock trusted the people behind the club. “It was a bit of a leap of faith, but I met with Wayne Bennett and Peter O’Sullivan. That gave me a lot of confidence because we all know what calibre of squad those two blokes can build,” he told reporters.
He was promoted to the Dolphins’ top‑30 squad in the week of the round‑one clash with the Sydney Roosters in 2023, although he did not play in that match. Since then, Bostock has become one of the team’s most lethal weapons, earning a reputation as a “game‑changing” player under Bennett’s guidance and the mentorship of current coach Kristian Woolf.
2026: A Year of Growth and Recognition
The 2026 season has been a defining one for Bostock. After recovering from an ACL rupture suffered last year, he returned to action in a spectacular fashion. The centre switch that had been planned for the pre‑season finally materialised when he played a Queensland Cup game at centre and then stepped into the NRL side against Melbourne. His performance helped the Dolphins secure a victory and set the tone for the rest of the campaign.
His form earned him a spot in the State of Origin series. Bostock made his debut for New South Wales on the wing in the series decider, which the Blues won in Brisbane. The experience of representing his state added to his confidence and raised his profile both within the club and across the NRL.
With the Dolphins’ recent signings of utility player Brad Schneider, second‑rower Kulikefu Finefeuiaki and wingers Tevita Naufahu and Selwyn Cobbo, the club’s roster is shaping up to be one of the most balanced and talented in the competition. Bostock’s own contract negotiations are reportedly in advanced stages, with the club and player reportedly close to a final agreement.
Why Bostock Wants to Stay
When asked about his future, Bostock was clear: “I would like to stay here for sure.” He added that the camaraderie with his teammates, many of whom he has grown up with over the past four years, is a key factor in his decision. “It would mean a lot to me and everyone else in the locker room here to win a premiership,” he said. Bostock also expressed a desire to achieve a title within the first four years of the Dolphins’ NRL journey, a goal that would “be massive not just for the playing group but for everyone that played a part to get us here.”
He emphasized that contract talks are not the priority at the moment, as the focus remains on the finals campaign. “It is not the time to be talking contracts now,” Bostock said. “I will sort all that out after the finals.”
What Happens Next?
The Dolphins will play a preliminary final against the Sydney Roosters on Friday night, with Bostock slated to be one of the most improved players on the field. The outcome of the match will be crucial for the club’s chances of reaching the grand final and potentially securing the club’s first NRL premiership.
Should Bostock and the Dolphins reach an agreement, the centre will be a central figure in the club’s push for silverware. If the contract is not finalized, the club will need to decide whether to retain a key player who has become integral to its on‑field success.
For now, Bostock remains focused on the game, the team and the chance to bring a championship to the Dolphins’ young fan base.
Key facts
- Jack Bostock wants to re‑sign with the Dolphins
- Breakthrough 2026 season and State of Origin debut
- Return from ACL injury and switch to centre
- Dolphins strengthen squad with new signings
- Contract talks in advanced stages
- Upcoming preliminary final against Roosters
Why it matters
Bostock’s decision to stay could be pivotal for the Dolphins’ quest for their first premiership, cementing his role as a cornerstone of the club’s future success.
Frequently asked questions
What position does Jack Bostock play?
Bostock primarily plays centre but has also featured on the wing.
When did Bostock join the Dolphins?
He signed a development contract in 2023.
Has Bostock played State of Origin?
Yes, he debuted for New South Wales in the 2026 series decider.
What is the status of Bostock’s contract?
Negotiations are reportedly in advanced stages, but no final agreement has been announced yet.
Sources
- [1] smh.com.au — originally reported as “‘I want to stay’: Bostock takes Dolphins leap of faith”
