LeagueNews.co | Nick Loken
The Cronulla Sharks have finalized their team for the Round 3 match against the Rabbitohs, with no changes to the lineup.
Hohepa Puru remains as the potential concussion sub, with Jayden Berrell dropping out of the extended squad.
Coach Fitzgibbon confirmed that halfback Nicho Hynes will be starting after recovering from a corked leg.
The trio of Kennedy, Williams, and Metcalf will also be playing for the Newtown Jets in the NSW Cup game against the Rabbitohs.
Hohepa Puru has replaced Burns as the 18th man for the Sharks.
"Fitzgibbon confirmed in his media conference on Friday morning that halfback Nicho Hynes is a certain starter after shaking off a corked leg."
Overall, the Sharks are sticking with their original lineup for the match and are confident in the players they have selected.
The inclusion of Hynes after recovering from injury is a boost for the team.
The Sharks will also have a strong contingent playing for the Newtown Jets in the curtain-raiser game.
"Hohepa Puru remains the 18th man as a potential concussion sub, with Jayden Berrell dropping out of the extended squad ahead of kick-off at 3pm AEDT."
The decision to keep Puru as the 18th man shows the Sharks' commitment to player safety and having a backup in case of injury.
Berrell's exclusion from the squad indicates that the team is satisfied with their current selections and will move forward with confidence in their chosen lineup.
The Sharks will be looking to secure a win against the Rabbitohs in Round 3 and continue their momentum in the competition.