Tom Hazelton is facing an extended stint on the sidelines.
The Sharks fan favourite suffered a collarbone joint injury in Round 10 against Manly.
He has since undergone surgery to correct the issue but is forecast to miss 12 weeks of action.
Hazelton could return for the last few matches of the regular season and build his fitness up for a potential finals run with Cronulla.
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However, if there are setbacks in his recovery, there is a chance he sits out the remainder of 2025.
"The injury and lengthy recovery time is a frustrating setback for one of the Sharks' most popular and consistent performers," the club wrote in a statement.
"The surgery, which took place on Tuesday, came after Hazelton underwent a series of reviews with shoulder specialists. His return to play estimate is currently 12 weeks.
"Hazelton suffered the sternoclavicular joint injury, also known as a collarbone joint injury, after landing awkwardly when in possession of the ball and tackled in the Sharks' win over the Sea Eagles."
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Hazelton has become a cult hero in the Shire off the back of his physical play style and knack for finding the line.
After debuting for the club in 2022, he has gone on to make 55 appearances and score 11 tries.
The 26-year-old joins a sizeable Sharks casualty ward.
However, Cronulla's injury list is expected to shrink soon, with Toby Rudolf and Teig Wilton both set to return in a fortnight.