Feeling Stifled on the Sidelines: David Fifita Faces Another Benching Amidst Questions Over Des Hasler’s $1 Million Decision

David Fifita finds himself on the bench once more, raising further concerns regarding coach Des Hasler’s utilisation of the powerhouse forward from Gold Coast.

The 25-year-old was sidelined for over 50 minutes during the Titans’ round two match, where they suffered a disappointing defeat to Canterbury.

Fifita is widely regarded as one of the most explosive players in the league, having consistently demonstrated his potential to make a significant impact right from the outset of a game.

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However, after his omission from Queensland’s squad last season during State of Origin, uncertainty seems to linger regarding the best role for Fifita.

In a discussion on SEN radio, Broncos legend Corey Parker expressed his confusion about why Fifita had such limited impact against the Bulldogs, especially considering his substantial salary of $1 million this season.

“If you’re Des Hasler at the selection table and let David Fifita sit on the bench for 50 minutes—why? He’s a million-dollar player,” Parker remarked.

“He’s a devastating back-rower. He’s someone you want on the field. He has represented Australia and Queensland. At just 25, his best years are ahead of him.

“It’s challenging to lead a team when he’s left out. Get him in the starting line-up—it’s a move worth considering.”

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Having joined the Titans as a teenager, Fifita has blossomed into one of their biggest stars, yet he has yet to guide them toward premiership success.

The edge forward had signed with the Sydney Roosters last year, only to reverse his decision and commit to Hasler’s coaching for the long term. In a strange turn of events, Gold Coast granted him another $1 million-a-season contract despite Fifita rejecting the same deal just a week prior.

The Roosters were prepared to pay him $850,000 annually.

Yet it now appears that Fifita may be falling out of favour or lacks clarity in his role.

“Get your million-dollar man on the field … get him involved, Des,” league icon Greg Alexander urged on SEN.

“He didn’t even enter the game at half-time. While Hasler knows his players better than I do, the match was well in hand, and he only brought him on afterwards.

“The Titans convinced him to stay after the Roosters deal, and they had to pay him accordingly.

“So why wouldn’t you use him?”

Klese Haas and Beau Fermor have been named as the starting edge forwards ahead of their clash with the Newcastle Knights in round three.