LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
Twelve months ago, Jesse Colquhoun was sidelined with a ruptured ACL. Now, the Cronulla Sharks forward is just 80 minutes away from leading his team to an NRL Grand Final.
Following victories over the Sydney Roosters and Canberra Raiders in consecutive weeks, the Sharks are faced with a significant challenge as they prepare to compete against the formidable Melbourne Storm in Victoria.
The Sharks' spine, consisting of William Kennedy, Braydon Trindall, Nicho Hynes, and Blayke Brailey, has been performing exceptionally well lately. Additionally, another player has elevated his performance after starting the season in reserve grade.
Jesse Colquhoun, now in his fourth season with the club, has risen to the occasion in the absence of captain Cameron McInnes. However, his path to first grade has been fraught with difficulties.
Having played just 27 matches, 17 of which were in 2025, the lock faced consecutive foot injuries before suffering an ACL rupture upon his return to the field last year.
"It's always tough. You always have those personal battles behind closed doors, but we are such a strong club here and have such strong connections, which makes it easy to get through, especially those tough times," Colquhoun shared. "Everyone's here to pick you up and keep you going."