Emerging outside back Sam Stonestreet has re-signed with the Cronulla Sharks on a one-year extension, keeping him at the club for the 2026 NRL season.
The 21-year-old was reportedly a target for the proposed Perth Bears expansion bid, with The Australian revealing he was on Bears boss Ben Howe’s recruitment hit-list.
Stonestreet’s decision to remain at Cronulla, however, will see him continue his development under head coach Craig Fitzgibbon as the Sharks push for another finals berth.
A product of Cronulla’s junior pathways, Stonestreet has been touted as one of the club’s brightest young talents.
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His re-signing strengthens the Sharks’ backline depth while also signalling their intent to retain key prospects amid growing interest from rival clubs and expansion hopefuls.
While the Bears ramp up putting their organisation together ahead of the November 1st date, Stonestreet’s name being linked with the club reflects the growing competition for emerging talent as potential new franchises look to build rosters.