Madimack Matchups - Sharks v Dragons

A local derby at a packed-out PointsBet Stadium on a Sunday afternoon – does it get any better?

The Sharks and Dragons will face off for the first time this season in Round 9, resulting in a smorgasbord of mouth-watering head-to-head duels.

Here are Sharks Media's Madimack Matchups to monitor this weekend, with the graphics below showcasing season statistics for the players in question.

Round 9 - Madimack Matchups

Daniel Atkinson v Kyle Flanagan

Starting for the first time in the NRL against the Raiders last week, Sharks five-eighth Atkinson showed impressive composure as he complemented Nicho Hynes without overplaying his hand. Expect the 23-year-old to grow in confidence with each game.

He is up against a former Shark in Flanagan this round. The Dragons No.6 has been consistent this season under the tutelage of his father Shane and will be eager to perform well at the ground where he played much of his junior footy.

Nicho Hynes v Ben Hunt

There are few more influential halfbacks in the game than Hynes and Hunt.

Hynes has been an integral part of Cronulla's strong start to the year, highlighted by the fact he leads the Dally M Medal count. The playmaker seems to thrive against St George Illawarra, engineering two thumping wins last season including a 52-16 victory in Round 18 where he scored a try and kicked eight goals.

The gap between Dragons captain Hunt's best and worst games is minimal, with the Maroons and Kangaroos star renowned for his wholehearted effort. After a heavy loss to the Roosters, Hunt will be determined to lead by example.

Jesse Ramien v Zac Lomax

He might not have received the plaudits of some of his teammates, but destructive Sharks centre Jesse Ramien has rarely put a foot wrong in 2024.

Ramien was immense in the Round 8 win over the Raiders, scoring a try, setting up another two, running for 194 metres and registering two line-breaks.

The Eels-bound Lomax was a revelation early in the season on the wing, leading to his name being tossed into NSW State of Origin conversations, but injuries have resulted in the 24-year-old returning to his favoured centre role.

Given his skill and athleticism, the Sharks must be alert when Lomax has the ball.