Arguably the club's most improved player this season, second-rower Billy Burns has re-signed with the Sharks until at least the end of 2026.
Burns has seized his chances at NRL level after captaining the Newtown Jets – Cronulla's feeder team – to the NSW Cup premiership in 2024.
The 26-year-old has featured in 10 top-grade games so far in 2025, scoring two tries and contributing heavily to several victories.
"I'm thrilled – the club believed in me a couple of years ago and I definitely believe in the club and where we're going," Burns said.
"I'm stoked to stick around, be with this group another year and get after it again.
"The level of coaching is great. I've got plenty of trust in Fitzy (Craig Fitzgibbon) and what we learn off him and the coaches.
"The group we have here is awesome – we're tight-knit and there's plenty of enjoyment playing with these guys."
Sharks General Manager Football Darren Mooney highlighted Burns' value.
"Billy has worked hard to make the most of every opportunity that's come his way this year, not only holding his own in the NRL but having a genuine impact," Mooney said.
"He's a positive character around the locker room and is very popular with his teammates. It's great to have him at the club for another season."
Burns arrived at Cronulla last year after stints at the Panthers and Dragons.
The Parkes Spacemen junior played four matches for the Sharks in his first campaign while steering the Jets to a historic grand final victory over North Sydney, earning a place in the NSW Cup Team of the Year in the process.
The versatile forward has been named on the interchange for Saturday's local derby against the Dragons at Jubilee Stadium.
"I'm feeling the belief off the coaches and the boys. It allows me to play my game and follow the structures they put in," Burns said.
"I want to keep playing as much NRL as I can – that's always a goal – and help the team succeed as much as I can, on and off the field."
