LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
The Sharks have been given a favorable draw for the 2024 NRL season, with an advantageous start that puts them in a strong position to return to the top four.
According to news.com.au, Cronulla will play eight games against last year's bottom four teams and will have the fewest matches against top eight teams.
Coach Craig Fitzgibbon's team will only have nine games against teams that made the finals in 2023, and they will avoid facing the top teams from rounds 15-23.
However, the ease of the draw may be misleading as some teams can surpass expectations while others may struggle.
In contrast, the Storm will have a tough schedule, facing 12 matches against top eight teams, six of which are against top four sides.
The Panthers will also face a challenging start to the season, with matches against top teams like the Storm, Eels, Broncos, and Roosters in the opening month.
The Wests Tigers, as the wooden-spooners, have a relatively favorable draw compared to other bottom teams, with only four games against the top four and three five-day turnarounds.