Toby Rudolf’s season has hit another snag, with the Sharks prop set to miss up to eight weeks after suffering a syndesmosis injury in the win over Newcastle.
Rudolf, who only returned to action in Round 4 following off-season shoulder surgery, limped off midway through the second half at McDonald Jones Stadium and didn’t return. Scans later confirmed damage to his left ankle, ruling him out of Sunday’s trip to Leichhardt Oval.
It’s another cruel blow for one of the NRL’s most popular figures, whose off-field charisma is matched only by his relentless energy on it. Having missed the start of 2025, the 28-year-old now faces another extended stint on the sidelines, with the Sharks forced to reshuffle their pack once again.
Tapuha steps in as Sharks brace for Tigers test
With Rudolf unavailable, Tuku Hau Tapuha will come into the 17, while Braden Hamlin-Uele continues his return from a knee injury via the extended bench.
MORE: Matt Lodge back on Manly's radar as prop inches closer to NRL return
The Sharks are hoping to ride the momentum from their 34-10 demolition of the Knights, which lifted them into the top eight.
Nine players ran for over 100 metres in that game, a stat that speaks volumes of Cronulla’s physical dominance. Addin Fonua-Blake set the tone up front, while their electric backline made the most of the platform laid.
Meanwhile, centre Kayal Iro is nearing a return after a hamstring issue, and Hamlin-Uele’s inclusion in the reserves signals he’s not far off a comeback either.