The Sydney Roosters have received a boost ahead of their upcoming NRL clash with the Dolphins, as key player Daly Cherry-Evans avoided suspension for a tripping incident during their recent victory over the Cronulla Sharks. Cherry-Evans was placed on report for tripping Sharks player Teig Wilton in the Roosters’ 46-10 win but was ultimately only fined $1,000 by the match review committee, allowing him to remain available for selection.

The decision comes as a relief for the Roosters, who are hoping to field their preferred halves combination against the Dolphins at Suncorp Stadium on Friday night. Cherry-Evans, 37, is nearing the end of his tenure with the club before a planned move to Super League side Hull FC at the conclusion of the season.

In addition to Cherry-Evans’ clearance, the Roosters are optimistic about the return of Sam Walker following his ankle syndesmosis surgery four weeks ago. Walker’s recent participation in pre-match warm-up drills during the game against Cronulla was a positive indication of his recovery progress. Though still cautious in movement, his involvement in passing drills suggests he could soon regain match fitness and potentially return to the starting lineup.

The return of Walker and Cherry-Evans would allow the Roosters to reinforce their playmaking options. It may also prompt a reshuffle in the backline, with five-eighth Hugo Savala possibly moving back to the centres or to the interchange bench, which could see Billy Smith shift out of the starting side.

The Roosters’ injury concerns have eased further with the recent comeback of second-rower Angus Crichton, who returned from foot surgery to deliver a strong performance off the bench against the Sharks.

Meanwhile, the club avoided suspensions for other players involved in incidents during the same match. Billy Smith and front-rower Lindsay Collins both received $1,000 fines for dangerous contact charges but will remain eligible to play in the weeks ahead.

With these developments, the Roosters appear better placed to mount a strong challenge in the finals push, provided their recovering players continue to regain full fitness.