Madimack Matchups - Sharks v Eels
While the Sharks head to CommBank Stadium on Thursday without two key players due to Origin duty, the Eels will regain their star duo of Mitchell Moses and Clint Gutherson after injury layoffs.
Despite the absence of Blues brothers Nicho Hynes and Cameron McInnes, the Sharks will also welcome back several big names for Round 13 as Toby Rudolf, Braden Hamlin-Uele and Braydon Trindall return to the side.
Sharks Media has honed in on three crucial head-to-head tussles in this week's edition of Madimack Matchups. The below graphics showcase season stats.
Madimack Matchups - Round 13
Will Kennedy v Clint Gutherson
Closing in on 100 NRL games, consistent Sharks custodian Kennedy is poised to step up as a leader with captain McInnes and chief playmaker Hynes out.
Kennedy's connection with new halves pairing Trindall and Daniel Atkinson will be pivotal to Cronulla reigniting their attack after an off night against the Panthers.
In the opposite No.1 jersey, Eels skipper Gutherson will play his first game since Round 8 after undergoing a minor knee operation. Renowned for his wholehearted effort, the four-time NSW representative's comeback will lift his teammates.
Braydon Trindall v Mitch Moses
Playing his first game after five weeks on the sideline, Trindall will fill Hynes' shoes and join forces with rookie Atkinson to steer the team around the paddock.
With Atkinson seizing his opportunity during Trindall's time away, the latter will be eager to show why he deserves to reclaim his place as Hynes' halves partner.
Parramatta have badly missed Moses, who hasn't been seen since Round 3 while recovering from a foot injury. The men in the blue and gold have won just one match without Moses this year and will be energised by their general's return.
Oregon Kaufusi v Junior Paulo
Having cut his teeth in first grade at the Eels as a teen, Kaufusi counted experienced front-rower Paulo, a fellow Samoan international, among his mentors.
His one-time idol will become a rival tomorrow night, with the props to put their mateship aside and bash into one another in the all-important early exchanges.
Kaufusi has been in career-best form, making the starting position his own in '24, while Paulo is an 11-time NSW forward who still brings considerable impact.
