The Sharks excel in NRL under coach Craig Fitzgibbon, featuring Addin Fonua-Blake's impact but seek to enhance their game for ultimate success in 2026.
The Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks are among the NRL's most efficient teams. Since Craig Fitzgibbon's arrival in 2022, they haven't just knocked on the door of the Top 4; they've moved in. But as we enter the 2026 season, the conversation in the Shire has shifted from 'Can we compete? to 'Can we kill?'
On paper, the boxes are ticked. They possess a coach who personifies the no-nonsense grit of the club's DNA, a back five that starts sets like they are owed money, and Addin Fonua-Blake, arguably the most destructive attacking prop in the game.
So why, after consecutive Preliminary Finals, does it feel like there is still a missing gear?
Note: Mick Crawley is a former attack coach for the Canberra Raiders.