2014 might be a write-off for the Sharks, but the club has moved to shore up its playing stocks for the coming years by announcing the retention of winger Jacob Gagan and front-rower David Fifita until the end of 2016.
The news of the pair's re-signing follows hot on the heels of fellow young guns Fa'amanu Brown and Sosaia Feki agreeing to terms that will keep them in the Shire for the next three seasons.
With twin brother Andrew having committed to the club earlier this year after a multimillion dollar deal to join the Bulldogs fell through, 25-year-old Fifita announced his re-signing with the Sharks via his Instagram account.
"Proud to announce I have just signed for another 2 years!! Couldn't give up on the dream #playingALONGsideMYtwin @andrewfifita #upupcronulla," wrote Fifita, who has played three games for the club since debuting in Round 2 but since been ruled out for the rest of the season with a foot injury.
Gagan, a former Australian schoolboy who has found his way to Cronulla via a stint with Manly in 2013, has been impressive since debuting against the Dragons a month ago, scoring three tries from his four matches in the top grade.
Interim Sharks coach James Shepherd said he was pleased to see the Fifita and Gagan remain at the club.
"They are both players of promise and it's great to see the club has given them an opportunity to fulfill their potential," said Shepherd.
"David has battled some injuries this year but made his NRL debut and handled it well, while Jacob has also had his chance in the top grade and has grabbed it with both hands.
"They both deserve the contract upgrades and the next step is for them to try to cement permanent positions in the NRL team."
