The Cronulla Sharks are poised for their elimination final against North Queensland, with halfback Nicho Hynes reaffirming confidence in the team's future amid speculation about their premiership window closing.
Since Hynes joined the Sharks from the Storm in 2022, the team has made four consecutive finals appearances but has a mixed record, winning just three of nine playoff matches. Nevertheless, they reached the preliminary final in the past two seasons.
The team faces an off-season transition as it prepares to say goodbye to prominent players like Siona Katoa, Jesse Ramien, Siosifa Talakai, Cameron McInnes, and Mawene Hiroti by the end of 2026.
As the Sharks navigate these changes, five-eighth Braydon Trindall returns from a dislocated shoulder just in time for the elimination match. "Very keen … it's been very tough sitting on the sidelines so very excited to be back," said Trindall, who has been recovering for three weeks.
Hynes dismissed the idea that the team's current situation signals the end of their competitive window. "I'd be doing an injustice to this club and the players coming through if I said this was the only premiership window," he stated. "We've just got a good opportunity this year to try and win a premiership."
Trindall noted he feels nearly at full strength but is still uncertain about needing surgery after the season. He is aware of the challenge presented by the Cowboys' forward pack, stating, "Yep, I'm ready." Hynes also expressed optimism about rekindling their partnership on the field, highlighting Trindall's unique skills.
"He brings more of a '7' role to the team if you will," Hynes explained. "When we're chiming in together on both sides of the field, it just feels natural." With hopes to showcase their best performance, Hynes emphasized, "If we bring that best version of the Sharks, we're going to be hard to stop."