LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
Cronulla faces a significant setback as first-choice winger Ronaldo Mulitalo has ruptured his ACL while representing New Zealand in their victory over Samoa during the Pacific Championships.
The Sharks are optimistic about his potential return in the 2026 season, and since the injury happened during an international match, the club qualifies for salary cap relief.
"Mulitalo will undergo surgery within the next week before beginning an extended recovery period. However, he will work with Sharks medical staff in an effort to return to the field at some point during the 2026 NRL season," stated the club.
This match marked Mulitalo's return to international play, as it was his 10th appearance after a hiatus of one year.
Last season, he was instrumental in Cronulla's performance, helping the team reach the preliminary finals, where they lost to Melbourne, and ending the season with 17 tries in 26 games.
As a result of Mulitalo's injury, young talent Sam Stonestreet is expected to fill in alongside Sione Katoa as the starting wingers for the 2026 season.