Andrew Johns is perplexed by Nicho Hynes’ recent performance dip and struggles to find a solution that Coach Craig Fitzgibbon could implement. During the Sharks’ home match against the Bulldogs on Saturday night, Johns noted that Hynes virtually vanished during the critical last 15 minutes of the game. He remarked, “He’s just so low on confidence… (Braydon) Trindall is effectively doing all the kicking and dominating the playmaking.”
Johns expressed his disappointment, stating, “In the dying moments of the game, we didn’t see Nicho at all… I really have no idea how to rebuild it.” He believes Hynes needs to take more initiative to engage with the ball, especially in tense moments when the stakes are highest. Johns commented that a top halfback should be involved multiple times during such crucial phases but felt this was lacking in Hynes’ recent gameplay.
Brad Fittler, another panelist, pointed out that Hynes tends to thrive when Trindall has a more prominent role in the halves, highlighting their only try of the game as a case in point. While acknowledging Hynes’ potential, Johns argued that the duo spent excessive time on opposite sides of the field, impacting their synergy.
Billy Slater offered a potential adjustment for Fitzgibbon by suggesting a swap between Hynes and Trindall, which might allow Hynes to play a more dynamic, running role. Although he admitted uncertainty about how much this would affect the Sharks’ overall attack, he considered it a positive step for Hynes’ confidence.
Cronulla’s next challenge comes against the Raiders in Canberra on Thursday night, making the need for a strategic shift more pressing if Hynes is to regain his form.