The question on everyone's mind is whether the Cronulla Sharks can finally break through and claim their first premiership under coach Craig Fitzgibbon in 2026. And here's where it gets controversial—many believe this could be their year, despite the hurdles they've faced. Recent insights from former Roosters star Luke Keary suggest that the Sharks may be on the cusp of something special this season. Keary remains optimistic about their chances, emphasizing that the team’s core is still in its prime and capable of competing with rugby league's heavyweight clubs like the Brisbane Broncos, Melbourne Storm, and Penrith Panthers.
Since Fitzgibbon took the reins in 2022, Cronulla has consistently made the finals, even reaching preliminary finals twice in the past two years. However, despite their strong performances, they've fallen short each time—once eliminated in straight sets in 2022, and then narrowly losing an elimination final by a single point to the Roosters the following season. Many experts are now questioning whether they’ve missed their chance, arguing that the club's window for victory might be closing as they edge towards a more veteran squad.
Critics often point to the lack of a standout game-changer in the Sharks lineup. While some see Nicho Hynes as the player who can be that pivotal figure, others remind us of his less-than-stellar track record in finals, casting doubt on whether he alone can turn the tide.
But Keary, who knows the team well, counters this skepticism with a confident outlook. He points out that the team’s roster is still in its peak years and believes 2026 should be when they hit their stride. He notes that, despite the narrative that they are aging and have made no significant new signings, the Sharks are 'ripe to go' and could easily finish in the top four—an outcome he considers almost a certainty.
Coach Fitzgibbon also shared thoughts after last season’s preliminary loss to Melbourne, emphasizing that respect in the league is earned through hard-fought victories in key matches. While he admits they haven't yet earned the ultimate respect, he stresses their determination not to give up and to keep fighting for their chance.
As the season kicks off on March 7 at Ocean Protect Stadium in Sydney with a match against the Gold Coast, fans and critics alike will be keen to see if the Sharks can finally transcend their near-misses and clinch the premiership they've been chasing for years.
So, do you believe Cronulla has what it takes to lift the trophy in 2026? Or are they destined to fall just short once again? Share your thoughts and join the debate—because in rugby league, nothing is certain until the final whistle.
