The Sharks have secured one of their most exciting young prospects, with outside back Michael Gabrael signing a contract extension that keeps him at the club until at least the end of 2027.
The 20-year-old centre, an Eels junior who joined the Sharks via the Bulldogs ahead of the 2024 season, has made a seamless transition from Jersey Flegg to New South Wales Cup this year.
With 17 tries from 18 games for the Newtown Jets - the Sharks' feeder team - Gabrael has already made a strong case for a future in the NRL.
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Gabrael earned representative honours with NSW Under 19's in 2024 after featuring for NSW City Under 18's the previous year.
His blistering speed, try-scoring instincts, and defensive discipline have marked him out as a player capable of making an impact at the top level.
"I'm loving my time at the Sharks," Gabrael said in a statement released by the club on Friday.
"I'm grateful for the opportunity I've been given and I'm looking forward to learning from the senior boys and to contributing to the team's success."
Sharks head of football Darren Mooney highlighted Gabrael's progress since joining the club.
"Michael has benefitted from two years now training with the NRL squad and we are really happy with how he is progressing," Mooney said.
"Despite still being eligible to play Jersey Flegg he has been one of the Jets' most consistent players in his first season in the NSW Cup this year and there is still plenty of upside to Michael's game going forward."
Gabrael's rise comes amid a strong period for Cronulla's lower grades, with both their Jersey Flegg and NSW Cup sides reaching their respective grand finals last season.
This pipeline of talent, bolstered by recruits like Gabrael, positions the Sharks for sustained success in the coming years.