Under the Surface - Wade Graham

The 2016 season was a standout out for Wade Graham, a year where the former Penrith boy claimed his first premiership ring.

The following year he enjoyed plenty of highs as well, with Graham representing country and state as his talents were recognised further afield.

But as good as the previous two years may have been, 2018 was a difficult one for the Sharks current Co-Captain, with Graham battling a number of niggling injuries before tearing his ACL in the Finals series.

It was a cruel end to a frustrating year for Graham, but one which should have him primed to bounce back, to reclaim his rep jerseys and to help guide the Sharks to a successful 2019 NRL season.

Joining the Sharks in 2011 as a five eighth, Graham has evolved into a hard hitting, physical backrower, one of the best in his position in the NRL competition, a player who doesn't mind getting involved in the rough and tumble, while also possessing the skill and smarts to turn a game in his teams' favour.

Which is why Graham will again be such a valuable commodity for the Sharks once his knee has healed and he is back on the field, predicted to be somewhere close to round 10.

And adding to his standing at the Sharks, Graham has the respect of the playing group and having recently signed a new three-year contract, is close to a certainty to become the permanent skipper once Paul Gallen hangs up the boots.

Graham visited the Sharks Media studios as we went 'under the surface' in continuing our series as we get to know your 2019 Sharks NRL squad.

WADE GRAHAM