The Sharks announce a new contract for recent club debutant Riley Jones, extending his time at the Cronulla club ahead of the elimination final with the Cowboys this weekend.
Jones has been named in the Sharks backline for the clash on Saturday and is set to remain in the Shire after re-signing for the 2027 season.
'I got to live out another dream': Jones re-signs with Sharks
After displaying an ability to have an impact at NRL level this season, Sharks General Manager Football Darren Mooney was pleased to be able to secure Riley’s services ahead of the club’s finals campaign.
"Riley debuted for Newcastle as a hooker in 2023 but has found a home at centre with the Newtown Jets this season. He has worked hard on his game alongside our coaching staff and is now beginning to realise the talent and potential he possesses," Mooney said.
"We are thrilled Riley has decided to remain at the club next year. We believe he has plenty more improvement in him, but before that we have no doubt RJ can make a contribution to the success we are striving to achieve in the coming weeks."
Jones, a Central Coast native, moved to Cronulla midway through last year, looking for a change of scenery and an opportunity at the Sharks.
An opportunity he’s grasped with both hands, becoming a full-time member of the Sharks NRL squad this year.
The 24-year-old has played an integral role in the NSW Cup success of the Newtown Jets and impressed for Cronulla against Melbourne last weekend, scoring a try on club debut.
Riley Jones Try
The right centre is grateful to be back playing at the top level and to continue his NRL journey at the Sharks.
“It means the world to me and my family,” Jones said of his re-signing. “I’m so grateful to Fitzy and the club for putting the trust in me.
“It wasn’t an easy road back, but I got to live out another dream last weekend, so I’m very happy for my family as well, who have seen all the ups and downs.”
The focus for Jones now shifts to the Cowboys and the elimination finals match on Saturday night after being named to start at centre for the Sharks.
“It’s good to get it done and to be able to focus on footy again now,” Jones said.
“I’m pumped. For Fitzy and the coaching staff to have the trust in me to go out and play my game, to have me in the team, is so special. To get another opportunity, and in the finals – I pinch myself.”
Don't miss the Sharks NRL and NRLW double-header on Saturday!
Catch the Sharks women in action against the Dragons from 5:10pm at Allianz Stadium.
Followed by Riley and the Sharks men in their all-important Week 1 Finals clash against the Cowboys at 7:50pm – get your tickets HERE.
