Anticipation is high as the Sharks battle the Cowboys in an Anzac Round clash for the Paul Green Medal at Townsville's Queensland Country Bank Stadium this Friday night.
Cronulla, sitting seventh on the ladder, aims to bounce back after a bye and a two-match losing streak, recently halted by the Roosters in Round 6.
The Cowboys, equal in points with the Sharks but placed 11th due to differential, seek redemption following a disappointing 38-6 defeat to the Sea Eagles at home last week.
The Anzac spirit is notably significant in Townsville, renowned as Australia's main garrison city thanks to the Lavarack Barracks military base.
Adding to the drama is the Paul Green Medal, honoring the former Cronulla halfback and North Queensland coach who sadly passed away in 2022.
This medal, awarded since 2023, is presented by the winning team's coach to the standout player of the match.
Addin Fonua-Blake recently earned this honor after his exceptional performance in Cronulla's 32-12 victory last August.
Cronulla welcomes back co-captain Cameron McInnes from an ACL injury, adding strength to their roster while making strategic lineup changes.
The Cowboys rejoice as Jeremiah Nanai returns from a shoulder injury, joined by key players Murray Taulagi and Reed Mahoney, both back from concussion protocols.