Cronulla Sharks 2025 season preview
2024 recap
It was another solid year for the Sharks in 2024 as they secured a top four finish and reached a prelim final before bowing out to the eventual premiers, Penrith.
Cronulla have become a consistent top eight side under coach Craig Fitzgibbon, and now it’s about taking the next step and lifting a first Premiership since 2016.
2024 position: 4th (Lost 26-6 to Penrith Panthers in week three of finals)
Key signings
Addin Fonua-Blake (New Zealand Warriors), Hohepa Puru (Canberra Raiders)
Key departures
Samuel Healey (New Zealand Warriors), Royce Hunt (Wests Tigers), Siteni Taukamo (Newcastle Knights), Jack Williams (Parramatta Eels)
Players to watch
On his day, Addin Fonua-Blake is one of the best props in the NRL, and his arrival is a statement of intent from Cronulla. The 29 year-old returns to Sydney after four seasons with the Warriors, and if he can stay fit he’ll pass the 200-game mark in 2025 – the kind of experience that’s worth its weight in gold to a Premiership contender.
Until he leads the Sharks to a Premiership, Nicho Hynes will continue to be questioned as an elite halfback. It’s perhaps a little unfair on the 28 year-old, who has won the Dally M during his time at Cronulla and collected a Premiership ring whilst with Melbourne. Still, for more than $1m per year, it’s understandable why there’s so much pressure on him.
Young gun
Liam Ison has been upgraded to the Sharks’ top 30 squad for 2025 after making his NRL debut last season whilst still on a development contract. The 20 year-old fullback will start the year behind Will Kennedy in the battle for the number one jersey, but expect him to be ready and waiting if an opportunity comes up to add to his sole first grade appearance.
Our prediction – 7th
I’d be surprised if the Sharks didn’t make the top eight, but I don’t see them as Premiership winners either. They’re a very good side and will pick up some notable wins, but when it comes down to the crunch, I can’t see them getting past the very best sides in the NRL.
