The Cronulla Sharks have confirmed a contract extension for Michael Gabrael, with the young outside back committing his future to the club until at least the end of 2029.
The centre and winger has been in fine form for the Newtown Jets throughout the course of the year, and Sharks boss Craig Fitzgibbon finally gave in to reward him with a first-grade debut this year.
He has 27 tries and 10 assists at the Newtown Jets across his 33 games, and has been a key part of the success of that outfit over the last two seasons, having originally joined the Sharks set-up from the Bulldogs ahead of 2024.
He had previously been working his way through the Parramatta Eels pathways.
“Michael is still only 21, but he has now spent three years in our full-time program. During that time, he has worked hard, continued to develop his game, and thoroughly earned his opportunity to make his NRL debut late this season,” Sharks general manager of football Darren Mooney said.
“That opportunity may have come even earlier if not for a few injury setbacks during the year. He has genuine pace and power, and we believe he is well placed to challenge for a regular spot in our NRL side next season.
“We're pleased Michael has committed his future to the Sharks, and we believe he has all the attributes to develop into a quality NRL player.”
Gabrael is a former NSW under-19s representative, and the outside back will likely see an increased role next year with the departure of Sione Katoa and Jesse Ramien to the Cronulla Sharks at the end of the just completed campaign.
