Billy Slater believes that simply recruiting star players is not enough for Cronulla to become genuine contenders for this year’s NRL premiership. Despite a strong showing in a narrow 28-22 loss to reigning champions Penrith in Las Vegas, the Sharks have continued to fall short against top rivals. Slater suggested that while the Sharks can consistently defeat lesser teams, they struggle when it comes to overpowering those ranked in the top four.
Since clinching their solitary NRL title in 2016, the Sharks have only missed the finals once, finishing ninth in 2021. However, they have yet to reach a grand final with the current squad. New signing Addin Fonua-Blake made an impact during the match against Penrith, scoring a key try and demonstrating his potential value to the team.
However, Slater emphasised that it is not just Fonua-Blake who is crucial for the Sharks; rather, every player on the team must step up and aspire to be a premiership contender. In his podcast, Slater remarked on the importance of a collective effort, stating that while Fonua-Blake brings confidence and excitement to the squad, the other players must also elevate their performance levels, similar to how Penrith’s Nathan Cleary and Isaah Yeo led their team when it mattered most.
He recognised that Cronulla currently holds a consistent top-four position, but highlighted that they haven’t participated in a grand final in eight years and that the current roster lacks that vital experience. As the Sharks aim for a breakthrough season, there is an expectation for players like centre Nicho Hynes, who commands a salary of over $1 million annually, to step up in crucial moments, overcoming past criticisms of him going missing during pivotal matches.
With a vital clash against North Queensland approaching on March 15, the Sharks will need to harness their potential and cultivate the unity necessary to advance towards the grand final. Slater’s insights underline the notion that individual talent must be supported by a strong team ethos for Cronulla to truly challenge for the premiership this year.