LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
The Cronulla Sharks are gearing up to take on the Penrith Panthers in the NRL preliminary final, with Siosifa Talakai stepping in for Jesse Ramien who is sidelined with an ankle injury.
Talakai's inclusion in the starting lineup has shifted Daniel Atkinson to the interchange bench, with Mawene Hiroti taking on the role of 18th man.
In true sporting fashion, the Sharks know they have a tough challenge ahead as they prepare to face the reigning Panthers at Accor Stadium.
To reach the ultimate goal of winning the premiership, they must stand up to the Panthers who are eyeing a historic fourth consecutive title.
It's a battle of champions, with the Panthers aiming for their fifth straight grand final appearance and coming off an impressive 10-game playoff winning streak reminiscent of the legendary Dragons of the 1950s and 1960s.
However, the Sharks are ready to tackle this challenge head-on with a quiet confidence.
Having proven themselves with a hard-fought semi-final win against the Cowboys last week, the Sharks have shed any doubts or pressures and are ready to embrace their underdog status.
They know the task ahead won't be easy, but they are determined to leave it all on the field and make their mark in Rugby League history.