In a major re-signing announcement, representative centre/backrower Siosifa Talakai will remain at the Cronulla club for at least the next four seasons.
Already contracted for 2023, Talakai has signed a three-year contract extension, one that will see him continue to play in Sharks colours until at least the end of 2026.
After a breakthrough season last year, one in which he found a permanent home in the Sharks backline before being selected to play for NSW, Talakai’s re-signing is a positive development for a Cronulla side aiming to build on a successful 2022 season.
Still on an extended break following the World Cup, Talakai dropped by Sharks headquarters to sign his new contract, while expressing his excitement in securing his playing future.
“I’m very grateful for the opportunities the Sharks have provided me to this point and really excited to be extending my contact and remaining at the club for the next four years,” Talakai said.
“I enjoy a close bond and have great friendships with my teammates and coaching staff which played a part in my decision to re-sign and with the quality of the players we have I believe we can do something special here at the Sharks next year and in the years ahead.”
After playing a pivotal role in the Newtown Jets premiership winning season of 2019, Talakai, then on a summer training contract, earned a Sharks NRL deal for 2020 following a strong pre-season campaign.
From there he has not only cemented a permanent place in the Sharks NRL line up, but his talents have also been recognised by NSW and Tongan selectors, with Talakai playing in games two and three of the 2022 Origin series before taking part in the recently completed World Cup.
Talakai has played 63 NRL games, scoring 14 tries, with 52 games for the Sharks. He appeared in 21 matches during the 2022 season, with a shoulder injury keeping him out of the Sharks elimination finals, where his presence was missed in his teams’ loss to the Rabbitohs.
The 25-year-old has also made two international appearances for Tonga, to go with his two Origin matches for the Blues.
Talakai will re-join the Sharks squad immediately after the Christmas-New Year break to begin preparations for 2023.
