Cronulla Sharks have secured promising talent Riley Jones with a contract extension that will keep him at the club until the end of 2027.
This one-year addition comes after Jones made his first appearance for the Sharks, playing in the centres as coach Craig Fitzgibbon rotated players ahead of the finals.
His recent transition from dummy half to centre has been noteworthy, especially as he played at the NRL level for the first time in this new position.
Previously, Jones debuted for the Knights in 2023 before joining Cronulla at the start of last year, where he thrived with the Newtown Jets.
Sharks general manager of football Darren Mooney expressed confidence in Jones, noting, "He has worked hard on his game alongside the coaching staff and is now beginning to realise the talent and potential he possesses."
Mooney added, "We believe he has plenty more improvement in him, but before that we have no doubt RJ can make a contribution to the success we are striving to achieve in the coming weeks."
Jones, who scored a try on his club debut, is eager for more playing time next season.
As the Sharks face losses in their roster, including Mawene Hiroti, Sione Katoa, and Jesse Ramien, opportunities are opening up for rising players like Jones.
He is particularly excited about his future with the Sharks, stating, "It means the world to me and my family."