The Sharks could be bolstered by the return of towering front-rower Tom Hazelton when they host the Cowboys at PointsBet Stadium on Sunday afternoon.
Hazelton, who’s been sidelined since Round 10 with a sternoclavicular joint injury, has been named on Craig Fitzgibbon’s extended bench and is firming for a comeback. The 25-year-old’s inclusion would add serious grunt to the middle as Cronulla look to cement their top-four credentials in Round 22.
While he’s not guaranteed to feature, Hazelton’s presence on the team sheet suggests he’s edging closer. His return would help cover the absence of Toby Rudolf, who’s been ruled out after suffering a head knock.
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Nikora cleared, Talakai returns at centre
There’s further good news on the selection front with Briton Nikora cleared to play after missing last week due to concussion. The second-rower slots straight back into the starting side, pushing Billy Burns to the bench.
Sifa Talakai has also overcome illness and will start in the centres, replacing Chris Vea’ila, who was a late inclusion against South Sydney.
The return of Talakai adds a dose of power and aggression to the backline.