Injuries have reshaped Cronulla's roster ahead of the NRL finals, particularly with centre Mawene Hiroti sidelined due to a rib issue. Coach Craig Fitzgibbon expressed uncertainty regarding Hiroti's recovery timeline after he exited last Sunday's match against Parramatta, which the Sharks lost unexpectedly.
With Hiroti and teammate Jesse Ramien unavailable for the upcoming clash with Melbourne, Riley Jones will make his debut, stepping in to the centres. Jones last played in the NRL three years ago as a hooker for Newcastle. Alongside him, 21-year-old Michael Gabrael, who has excelled in NSW Cup, will also debut following KL Iro's rest. Furthermore, five-eighth Riley Pollard is set for his NRL debut in place of Nicho Hynes, who is currently dealing with a virus.
Fitzgibbon noted that either Jones or Gabrael could potentially earn a starting spot in the elimination final if they perform well against the Storm. He mentioned Siosifa Talakai as another option for the centres, highlighting the flexibility in the lineup.
Previously, Fitzgibbon had remarked on his team's uptight nature as they approached the finals, especially after a string of poor performances. However, he believes the introduction of debutants has shifted the team's dynamic positively. "Excitement shifts when you've got three debutants," he said.
Braydon Trindall, who was in exceptional form prior to his shoulder injury against Canberra three weeks ago, is on track to return for the first week of finals, aiming to partner Hynes. As they get ready to host Melbourne, the Sharks will commemorate the tenth anniversary of their sole premiership victory by inviting many members of their 2016 championship team to training. Fitzgibbon emphasized the value of learning from past experiences.