Outstanding rookie Kayal Iro has signed a fresh two-year deal with the Sharks, keeping the centre at the club until at least the end of 2026.
After biding his time over the past few seasons, Iro has been a revelation in 2024, having played every game since breaking into the team in Round 4.
As he prepares to face the Cowboys in Townsville on Saturday evening, the 24-year-old Cook Islands international is delighted to have his future secured.
"The Sharks mean everything; they've given me my first shot to live out my childhood dream," said Iro, who made his NRL debut for Cronulla in 2022.
"I like what we're building here, so I'm pretty happy and pretty excited to stay here for the next two years. I'm enjoying it.
"I've been here for a few years now. My first year was the 2021 season and I've loved it ever since - loved the area, the boys, the crew, especially the coaching staff.
"I'd like to thank my mum, dad and especially my partner for the last couple of years, just sticking by me through hard times … But most of all my parents for pushing me through all the tough times like the early mornings as a kid."
Sharks coach Craig Fitzgibbon is eager to see Iro progress as he gains more experience.
"We've always rated Kayal extremely highly," Fitzgibbon said.
"He worked hard while waiting for his opportunity and has taken it with both hands this year.
"Kayal is still just 15 games into his NRL career and will only get better in the seasons ahead."
Iro has averaged 162 metres per game this season while banking two tries and four try assists, relishing the challenge of playing in his first full NRL campaign.
His performances have pushed his name into Dally M Rookie of the Year conversations.
"I've been enjoying it. It's been a huge learning curve, learning every week and hopefully getting better," Iro said.
"That's the most exciting thing about the next two years. Hopefully, I can just get better and mould my game.
"The coaching staff have been huge, especially Fitzy, all the work I've done with him one on one. He's developing my game a lot.
"I just like how he has the trust in me to go out there every week and do my best."
