The Sharks are pleased to announce dependable back-rower Billy Burns has signed a two-year-extension, tying him to the club until at least the end of 2028.
Burns has been a revelation since joining Cronulla ahead of the 2024 season, growing into an NRL regular with his work ethic and consistency.
The 27-year-old enjoyed a breakout campaign in 2025, playing a career-high 17 games and holding down a starting position throughout the finals.
The Parkes Spacemen junior has featured in both games so far this season, contributing well in the Round 1 win over the Titans.
"The club took a chance on me a couple of years ago and to be able to repay that has definitely made me feel happy and grateful for the opportunity," Burns said upon re-signing.
"I'm keen to see where we can go in the next couple of years.
"I feel proud, but I wouldn't have been able to do it without the people in the building. The coaching staff especially, they've been really good driving me, and then I have a great bunch of guys around to push me and learn off.
"I've got one of the best back-rowers in Briton Nikora and an up-and-comer in Teig Wilton, which has been massive for my development. To be able to graft away with them the next couple of years is just so good."
Sharks General Manager Football Darren Mooney described Burns as a dedicated clubman who continues to impress and improve.
"This deal is testament to Billy's unwavering work ethic and his constant desire to improve his game," Mooney said.
"He was determined to make the most of his opportunity at the Sharks and has worked his way up to being a regular presence in our squad.
"With the ability to play on an edge and in the middle, he brings great versatility."
Burns has notched up 23 matches for Cronulla since his club debut against the Wests Tigers in Round 3, 2024. The forward captained Sharks feeder club Newtown to the NSW Cup premiership later that year.
A standout junior, Burns made his NRL debut for the Panthers as a 20-year-old in 2019. He switched to the Dragons in 2021, playing 41 games between both sides before making the move to the Sutherland Shire.
Burns is named to start in Saturday's clash with the Dolphins at Ocean Protect Stadium.
