Rugby League Clubs Eye Cronulla Sharks’ Kayal Iro, But NRL Deal Looms

Several Super League clubs have been monitoring the situation of Cronulla Sharks’ outside back Kayal Iro, but the Cook Islands international appears poised to secure a new deal in the NRL.

Iro’s Future Uncertain, But NRL Likely

Iro’s existing contract with the Sharks is set to expire at the end of the current season, attracting interest from a number of English teams in recent months. Love Rugby League understands that as many as three clubs expressed firm interest in the 24-year-old, whose future in Australia was uncertain.

“Iro’s future in Australia was uncertain.”

However, Iro has become a regular fixture in the Cronulla side in recent weeks, featuring in seven of their last eight NRL matches, including the Sharks’ 42-0 defeat to Penrith this past weekend. With Iro now firmly in the plans of head coach Craig Fitzgibbon, the likelihood of him being offered a new deal by the Sharks for 2025 has increased.

Castleford Tigers Among Interested Clubs

Castleford Tigers were among the clubs interested in Iro last season, making him an offer to join them for the 2024 campaign, which he ultimately rejected. Love Rugby League understands the Tigers are one of the teams still keen to land Iro’s services, but they and numerous other Super League clubs now appear set to miss out on his signature.

Iro’s Impressive Season in NSW Cup

After making just one appearance for Cronulla in 2022 and failing to feature at all the previous season, Iro has starred for the Newtown Jets in the New South Wales Cup, even winning the competition’s player of the year award in 2022. His impressive performances this season have elevated him to regular NRL status, heightening the prospect of a new contract with the Sharks and potentially ruling out a move to Super League.

🔗 Source