Cronulla Sharks have encountered a significant setback ahead of the NRL season with the announcement that star winger Sione Katoa has undergone shoulder surgery. The operation, which took place earlier in the week, was necessary to address an injury sustained during a recent trial match against the Warriors.
Katoa is expected to be sidelined for approximately four to five months, effectively ruling him out for a substantial portion of the upcoming season. This absence is a considerable blow to the Sharks, as Katoa has been a pivotal player, known for his remarkable ability to score—boasting 76 tries in 113 NRL appearances, including 17 last season.
While Katoa recuperates, the Sharks have mentioned that Marwene Hiroti and Samuel Stonestreet are potential candidates to fill his position. The Sharks’ season opener is against the formidable Penrith Panthers in Las Vegas on March 2, and they will need to adjust without one of their key players.