Dale Finucane, Cronulla co-captain, has announced his immediate retirement from rugby league following a decorated 251-game career.
The relentless forward confirmed the announcement in a press conference with Sharks coach Craig Fitzgibbon on Tuesday, after battling injuries for the previous three seasons since leaving the Storm at the end of 2021.
In other news, Kiwis captain James Fisher-Harris will leave the Panthers to return home to New Zealand, having signed a four-year contract with the Warriors beginning in 2025.
The Panthers stated that the 2023 Golden Boot winner approached the team this week and asked to return home to New Zealand on compassionate grounds.
The three-time premiership-winning prop has signed a four-year contract with the Warriors beginning in 2025.
“We’re absolutely delighted to be able to sign James,” said Warriors CEO Cameron George.
“It’s a major deal for us, unquestionably one of the most significant in our club’s history.
“Being able to add a player of his caliber and reputation to our roster is a huge boost for 2025 and beyond. He’s a very respected athlete and leader.
“It’ll be amazing having James with us. He’s one of the game’s best players, an extremely tough forward who sets and expects the highest standards,” said Warriors coach Andrew Webster.
“I enjoyed working with him at the Panthers, and we are excited to integrate him into our system starting next season. He’ll offer tremendous value to our roster and the club as a whole, and he’ll also be a great mentor to our young players coming up.”
