LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
Cronulla Sharks are facing criticism for a "grave error" that could enable star hooker Blayke Brailey to join the new Perth Bears, potentially as one of their marquee signings.
The Sharks currently risk losing Brailey, particularly with Queensland Origin stars Cameron Munster and Tino Fa'asuamaleaui also targeted by the Bears ahead of their 2027 NRL entry.
Brailey has one year left on his contract but can negotiate with other clubs starting November 1 if no extension with Cronulla is reached.
Contract discussions have stalled, with Brailey's representatives seeking a five-year extension, whereas the Sharks have only proposed an additional three years.
This impasse leaves the door open for Perth to pursue Brailey, who is viewed as one of the league's top hookers and a future NSW Origin candidate.
He is currently outperforming other Origin hookers, which has raised concerns about Cronulla's protracted negotiations.
Fox League's James Hooper noted, "The black, white and blue have made a grave error.
They've just been a little slow out of the gates, and I'd even go as far to say they have probably lowballed him.
If he's available come November 1, I'd suspect many clubs, possibly someone like the Perth Bears, would pay up to $1 million to try and land his signature.
Because you can build a club around him."
League journalist Michael Caryannis termed Brailey "the most in-form player of the competition" and stressed the urgency for the Sharks to secure him.
He remarked on SEN radio, "He's a Shire boy, he's a (club) junior, he wants to stay and I think they'll get the deal done.
But they (Cronulla) have just got to be careful that if it gets to November 1, another club will offer him $1 million and the Sharks won't get to that."
Hooper has expressed doubts about Cronulla's initial offer, estimating it around $650,000, which he feels is insufficient given Brailey's potential market value.
He underlined, "I don't think it's anywhere near where it needs to be."
Overall, the Sharks must act swiftly to avoid losing Brailey to potential rivals, especially with a new and ambitious team like the Perth Bears ready to make significant signings as they prepare to join the competition.