Unlikely Sharks answer to fill Fifita void

Replacing a big prop with a speedy winger sounds like a strange plan but for the Sharks, it could prove the key to success in 2023.

Outside back Ronaldo Mulitalo has vowed to fill the void of experience left by retired forward Andrew Fifita.

Speaking to 9News Sydney’s Nicole Dunn, Mulitalo voiced his intent to steer from the front.

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“I feel like I’m in a good spot to show leadership and I think [coach Craig Fitzgibbon] wants that that from me as well,” he said.

“I’ve always been pretty loud around the group. I like to get comfortable around the lads and fall into my own skin.”

Sharks teammate Dale Finucane praised the 23-year-old winger’s contributions.

“It’s hard to replace an individual like Andrew,” teammate Dale Finucane said.

“He was really the spirit of the Sharks – he was so passionate on and off the field.

“Ronaldo, albeit out on the wing, his energy is infectious both at training and during a game so he’s someone I’d probably look to [to replace] that energy.”

Fresh from representing New Zealand at last year’s Rugby League World Cup, Mulitalo is eager to make amends for the Sharks’ straight-sets finals exit in 2022.

“[Playing for New Zealand was] one of the best things I’ve done and easily the best camp I’ve been a part of,” he said.

“Learning what kind of player I am amongst such professional [and] world-class players. You get to play the best of the best and it was good to experience that.”

Mulitalo has played 64 games for the Sharks since making his debut in 2019.

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