Sharks skipper Paul Gallen has succumbed to the rib injury which saw him miss the match against the Eels last weekend, with Kiwi Braden Uele coming into the 17-man squad for the game with the Roosters at PointsBet Stadium tonight.
After joining the Sharks in 2018, Uele played one top grade game last year, while enjoying a strong season with the Newtown Jets in the NSW Cup.
A big body and primarily a middle forward, Uele also has the capacity and ability to play on an edge if the situation warrants.
Gallen had been racing the clock in a bid to take part in the match, however he failed to overcome the injury and after being given every opportunity to prove his fitness, was ruled out earlier today.
In other Sharks team news, Shaun Johnson has overcome the problem which left him sidelined last weekend and will partner Chad Townsend in the halves, while there are no concerns over the fitness of Josh Dugan who will again play at fullback in the absence of Matt Moylan.
Rookie Bronson Xerri has retained his place in the centres following an encouraging debut performance against the Eels last week.
In Gallen's absence Andrew Fifita will assume the captains duties, with Jayson Bukuya coming into the starting side.
Half back Kyle Flanagan, on standby for Johnson, also comes out of the 19-man squad as announced last night.
The Sharks v Roosters match is scheduled for a 7.30pm kick-off at PointsBet Stadium, with the Sharks 17-man squad listed below.
NRL Team List – Round 5
Sharks v Roosters
Saturday, April 13
PointsBet Stadium
Kick-off – 7.30pm
1. Josh Dugan
2. Sosaia Feki
3. Bronson Xerri
4. Josh Morris
5. Sione Katoa
6. Shaun Johnson
7. Chad Townsend
8. Andrew Fifita
9. Jayden Brailey
10. Matt Prior
11. Briton Nikora
12. Kurt Capewell
16. Jack Williams
Interchange
14. Blayke Brailey
15. Jayson Bukuya
17. Scott Sorenson
20. Braden Hamlin-Uele
