“We haven’t maximised what we are capable of”: Can the Sharks bridge the gap with the NRL's elite?

Cronulla Sharks coach Craig Fitzgibbon has vowed that his team will be more competitive against the elite teams of the competition in 2025.

The Sharks have qualified for finals all three years under Craig Fitzgibbon but have only managed to win one final in that period. Cronulla’s record against the 2024 Grand Finalists is even more alarming.

Since 2020, Cronulla have a 1-7 record against Penrith and have been outscored 276-71.

Cronulla have a 2-6 record against Melbourne and have been outscored 219-131.

“It’s the challenge that lies ahead for us,” Fitzgibbon told SEN 1170 Breakfast.

“I’ve felt this for a number of years about our squad in that we haven’t maximised what we are capable of.

“The vast majority of our squad still has a lot of development and more levels to find and reach.

“I’d like to think we can bridge the gap but we have to pay respect to the clubs that have been doing it for a long time.

“That’s who we are aspiring to be and I do feel like we are getting closer.”

The Sharks have been bolstered by the arrival of 2023 and 2024 Dally M Prop of the Year Addin Fonua-Blake.

The 29-year-old returns to Sydney after a successful four-year stint with the Warriors and Fitzgibbon believes his signing will filter down to the other players in the squad.

“That’s why you acquire a player like Addin,” Fitzgibbon added.

“It’s not about him walking in and having to do it all himself. It’s a shift in energy.

“The players are looking at a high quality player and what he can bring to our team but at the same time, they have to work on their own game and see how they can compliment him.

“He’s certainly elevated the way we are thinking about our footy.

“We have always admired him from afar but when you see it in action, it’s definitely quality.

“We love having him and we’re just excited to see him get out there.”

Cronulla begin their 2025 NRL campaign in Las Vegas against the four-time reigning Premiers in Penrith.

“The preparation is having an impact on our pre-season, Fitzgibbon said.

“It’s a difficult challenge ahead about when to trial our main squad and when to trial our young guys.

“That lands on All-Stars weekend and we have 10 days over there so when can we all train before we travel?

“We’ve got a bit of planning ahead by the time we get over there. Most of the logistics have been finalised so we just have to sort out the final plan.”