Two rounds to play. Let’s have a look at Cronulla’s future.

What’s their pathway to the finals?

Cronulla play Canterbury and Newcastle in the last two rounds. On current form, one would think that the Sharks should win both games, which could be enough to propel them into second place.

Who will they most likely play?

With Melbourne and North Queensland both having tough rounds to finish the regular season, it’s one of the hardest things to predict about the finals. Melbourne usually improve around September, and they should do enough to secure third spot.

Okay, give me some hope…

Cronulla have been one of the big improvers of 2022. Rookie coach Craig Fitzgibbon has all the makings of a long-term successful mentor, and the signings of Dale Finucane and Nicho Hynes have brought a serious winning culture to the club.

Now, the reality check…

Cronulla may just a step behind some of the more experienced teams. Losing in finals hurts, and whatever happens, Cronulla will be one of the genuine premiership threats in 2023.

Who is the key?

It has to be Nicho Hynes. It’s hard to believe that at the start of the 2021 season Hynes was an occasional bench player. He has become of the key playmakers in the competition this year, and wouldn’t draw too much criticism if he finished with the Dally M award.

Predicted finish:

Second week of the finals. As hard it is, someone has to lose. The Sharks go down to Melbourne and Sydney Roosters, and learn enough from the experience to be better than both of them in 2023.