The inaugural Dick Smith NRL Auckland Nines will see the 16 NRL clubs competing for $2.6 million in prize money in a two-day blockbuster over February 15 and 16. While the individual 15-man squads are unknown at this stage, each club is committed to fielding 12 players from their top 25 squad, including at least one of their five highest-paid players.
So who is the one Sharks player most likely to shine at the tournament? Have your say below.
Todd Carney - Carney told a recent press conference he was looking forward to the extra 40/20 opportunities Nines will create. With his running and kicking game that will be just one of many challenges he'll present opponents.
Andrew Fifita - Fifita marries the size and strength of a prop with the speed, agility and finishing of a winger. Sometimes you can have it all.
Paul Gallen - What happens when you take one of the game's biggest motors, in a player who can go non-stop for 80 minutes, and put him in an 18-minute game? We're looking forward to finding out.
Michael Gordon - Looked to be getting back to his tackle-breaking best in 2013 and will chalk up plenty of metres in Auckland.
Beau Ryan - Able to play anywhere in the back five, Ryan has developed into one of the game's best finishers.
Wade Graham - A mobile wide-running back rower who can sting in defence or fill in at five-eighth, his all-round skills should make him a key player.
Eric Grothe Jr - At his best one of the game's most powerful and damaging wingers – will the Nines provide the perfect platform for 'Guru' to regain that game-breaking form?