Sharks forward goes from likely exit to shock re-signing

The Cronulla Sharks have secured a significant retention win, with prop Toby Rudolf reportedly set to remain at the club according to CODE Sports reports, despite attracting a lucrative offer from overseas.

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Rudolf had been strongly linked with a move to the Catalans Dragons in the Super League, with the French club reportedly tabling a three-year contract in an attempt to lure the experienced front-rower away from the NRL.

Local rivals also showed strong interested, with reports that cross town rivals Dragons, had already also tabled Rudolf an offer to remain local and play in the NRL in 2027.

Instead, the 29-year-old has chosen to remain in the Shire, agreeing to a new one-year extension that will keep him at Cronulla into the 2027 season.

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The decision comes as a major boost for the Sharks, who are preparing for significant roster turnover at the end of this year with several long-serving players set to depart.

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Rudolf has become an important member of Cronulla’s forward rotation since making his NRL debut in 2020, earning a reputation as one of the club’s most reliable and popular players.

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Despite missing part of this season through an MCL injury, the powerful prop had done enough to convince the Sharks he remained a key part of their plans moving forward.

The new deal means Rudolf is set to enter his eighth season at Cronulla, providing valuable experience and continuity as the club reshapes its squad for the future.

Cronulla’s ability to retain Rudolf also represents a blow to Catalans, who were hoping to add another experienced NRL campaigner to their roster ahead of the 2027 Super League season where they hoped to become more competetive with the UK heavyweights.

Keeping Rudolf may prove more valuable for Cronulla than an anyone though, with his popularity off the field and with his teammates just as large as the hit-ups he makes on the field.

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