Cronulla Sharks versatile forward Hohepa Puru has signed an extension to remain at the club on a new two-year deal. The deal keeps Puru at Cronulla until the end of the 2028 season, securing a key member of the squad ahead of the finals. Puru, who was originally off-contract at the end of this year, becomes an important piece of the club’s roster for the next few seasons. Mooney emphasized that Puru’s reliability and adaptability are key assets for the team as they work through the high-pressure environment of finals football.
Player Background and Contract Details
The 24-year-old forward made his NRL debut for the Canberra Raiders against the Sharks in 2023 before joining Cronulla ahead of the 2025 season. He made his debut for the new club against the Brisbane Broncos later that year. Puru has spent the last two seasons with his brother, Niwhai, at the Sharks, often stepping in to replace injured or Origin-absent players. The bond between the brothers has been a significant factor in Puru’s development, providing him with stability and support during his transition to the higher level of competition.
Although Puru’s primary position is lock, he is willing to play in any role the club asks him to fill. He described himself as a “Mr Fix It” for the team, saying he understands the system inside out. Puru expressed enthusiasm about remaining at the club, stating he felt he had grown tremendously as a player and a person. He noted that the club’s support has positively impacted his life off the field, allowing him to be a better family man, which in turn translates to improved performance on the field.
Performance and Team Impact
General Manager of Football Darren Mooney spoke highly of Puru’s character on and off the field. Mooney noted that Puru was outstanding in a recent match against the Storm, playing the full 80 minutes at hooker. He described Puru as a smart footballer who plays with a high level of physicality and consistently delivers whenever and wherever the team needs him. Mooney highlighted that Puru’s versatility allows the coaching staff to manipulate their forward pack and game plan with confidence, knowing they have a reliable option who can perform specific roles under pressure.
In 12 appearances this season, Puru scored the first try of his career against the Canterbury Bulldogs in round 11. He recorded 299 tackles at 92% efficiency and ran 36 metres per game while making 11 tackle breaks. This data illustrates his fundamental work rate and his capacity to contribute across the entire spectrum of forward duties, from defence to attack. His performance metrics demonstrate a player who is not only physically imposing but also technically sound in his execution.
It is common for clubs to prioritize depth when managing contracts, particularly for players capable of playing multiple positions. Puru’s ability to slot into different roles provides the coaching staff with flexibility, allowing them to manage game plans and personnel changes without disrupting the team structure. This adaptability often leads to longer tenures, as players who offer that kind of utility tend to be valuable assets in high-pressure situations like the finals series. The Sharks are clearly banking on this utility to be a difference-maker in the knockout stages of the competition.