Sharks supporters will likely have a clearer picture of their team’s championship prospects for the 2025 season within the first six rounds.
After finishing in the top four last year, only to be eliminated by the reigning champions, Penrith, the Sharks are faced with one of the toughest opening schedules in the league.
They kick off their season in Las Vegas against their old foes, Penrith, followed by clashes with the Cowboys in Townsville, Wayne Bennett’s restructured Rabbitohs, the improved Bulldogs, Canberra in the ACT, and a dangerous contest against Manly in round six.
Facing such a formidable lineup early will be a significant challenge, but it allows Craig Fitzgibbon’s side to evaluate their performance and anticipate some relatively ‘easier’ matches as the season progresses.
A significant portion of the Sharks’ aspirations hinges on their marquee recruitment of Addin Fonua-Blake from the Warriors.
If he can return to his best form, this powerhouse will bring a new level of strike capability to an already strong forward pack, capable of dominating any rival side in the NRL on their day.
The performance of the halves will also be a major point of focus for the Sharks in the upcoming season.
Sharks coach Craig Fitzgibbon. Getty
In the absence of Nicho Hynes due to injury, Braydon Trindall excelled as the primary playmaker and emerged as one of the top halves in the league during crucial matches.
With Hynes back in the mix, the question arises: Will he take a backseat to Trindall as he did late last season, or will Fitzgibbon restore him to the forefront once again?
Overall, the Sharks boast a well-rounded squad, featuring the pace and power in the backline to complement the drive from their forwards… There’s a genuine opportunity for a second NRL title if all goes well.
2025 Gains
Addin Fonua-Blake (Warriors), Hohepa Puru (Raiders)
2025 Losses
Jack Williams (Eels), Royce Hunt (Wests Tigers), Siteni Taukamo (Knights)
Best Buy: Without a doubt, Fonua-Blake. While his form dipped a bit during the latter part of the previous season at the Warriors after expressing the desire to return to Sydney, if he regains his touch, he will be one of the standout acquisitions of the year.
It’s a Big Season for: William Kennedy is a favourite among Sharks fans, but realistically, he doesn’t rank among the league’s elite fullbacks. The club will keep a close eye on his performance to determine whether they need to search for a high-profile replacement for the crucial No.1 jersey.
William Kennedy is tackled by Nathan Cleary. Getty
Biggest Question Mark: The Sharks boast one of the largest packs in the competition, but will they be able to maintain their energy for a full 80 minutes against smaller teams with a higher fitness level?
Predicted Finish: Fourth
Predicted Round One Line-Up:
1. Will Kennedy 2. Sione Katoa 3. Jesse Ramien 4. Kayal Iro 5. Ronaldo Mulitalo 6. Braydon Trindall 7. Nicho Hynes 8. Thomas Hazelton 9. Blayke Brailey 10. Addin Fonua-Blake 11. Briton Nikora 12. Teig Wilton 13. Braden Hamlin-Uele Bench: 14. Cameron McInnes 15. Siosifa Talakai 16. Oregon Kaufusi 17. Tuku Hau Tapuha
Sportsbet Odds to Win the Competition: $13
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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