LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
Newcastle Knights coach Justin Holbrook has rejected any notion of Fletcher Sharpe being repositioned to the wing in 2026, affirming that the young playmaker is in the running for a spine role. This decision comes as the team considers various combinations in preparation for the NRL trials and the season opener in Las Vegas.
Sharpe, now fully unrestricted and participating in contact training following an emergency surgery last year, has not trained on the wing this pre-season. Instead, he is anticipated to stay in the halves or at five-eighth, despite his past experience as a winger.
Holbrook addressed the matter during a training session at Broadmeadow, stating, "No, he won't play on the wing. He hasn't trained there at all and he won't train there."
This definitive position leaves Newcastle to consider their playmaking options while waiting for their injured captain, Kalyn Ponga, to return. Ponga, who is the club's primary fullback, is still recovering from a persistent foot issue that has affected his fitness.
Dylan Brown, a marquee recruit, is confirmed as one of the playmakers for 2026. Meanwhile, Sharpe and recent addition Sandon Smith are competing for the remaining spine positions.
One possible arrangement could see Sharpe positioned at five-eighth, while Smith could be utilized as a dummy-half option.