Gold Coast Titan David Fifita’s stunning injury recovery to play Brisbane Broncos in NRL trial

Gold Coast wrecking ball David Fifita has made phenomenal progress after ankle surgery to take his place in the opening trial against Brisbane.

Fifita, 24, had surgery in early September, but was off the pace with his recovery in the lead-up to Christmas,.

The Titans were at one stage concerned he would not be fit for the March 15 round-two clash with Canterbury, after the club’s first-round bye.

Fifita returned to training in January on a mission, and after a “super” six weeks of training will now have a crack at former club Brisbane in Toowoomba on Sunday.

Fellow Titans forward Moeaki Fotuaika said he was looking forward to lining up alongside Fifita.

“I am excited to see how he goes this weekend,” Fotuaika said.

“The start of pre-season he was having a few niggling injuries with it and it wasn’t coming right, but once he pushed through that pain he got back to full training.

“Dave has definitely come back in a lot better shape this year. It is probably the best he has ever come back.

“He has a high standard and is harder on himself than anyone else. I am excited for him to have a good year, and I know he will.”

Titans trio Fotuaika, Beau Fermor and Phil Sami all confirmed they would be playing in their opening NRL Pre-Season Challenge clash.

Gold Coast are expected to name a strong team apart from five All Stars representatives and those on the injured list.

Captain Tino Fa’asuamaleaui may play in the second trial against the Dolphins as he nears a return from a knee reconstruction.

“I’m definitely excited, as are all the boys, to have Tino back out there. He is slowly getting there,” Fotuaika said.

“There are still a few boxes (to tick) with his rehab to play, but I am sure once he is out there we will all feel comfortable to have his presence.

“Even at training the last couple of weeks, just being alongside him you can feel what a difference he makes.”