Super League target makes shocking decision on his future

Wade Graham has linked with huge moves to Super League to the likes of Leeds Rhinos, Warrington Wolves and Catalans Dragons.

It was suggested frequently last year that Graham, out of contract at the time, that he would be headed to Super League in 2023.

The veteran went back and forth on this matter only to decide to sign an extension at Cronulla but the skipper had to accept a reduced role.

He was open after this about the fact he had negotiations with Catalans Dragons and he said he would be keen on a move in the future.

However, in a shock move he has confirmed that he will be retiring at the end of this season.

He will step away from the game once the Sharks current season comes to an end.

Graham delivered the news to the 2023 Sharks NRL playing group, as well as family and close friends including former teammates Paul Gallen, Luke Lewis, Adrew Fifita, Todd Carney, Boyd Cordner from his time in NSW and Kangaroo squads, and Sharks Premiership winning coach Shane Flanagan.

In making the move from Penrith to the Shire, Graham debuted for the Sharks in round one of the 2011 season, before going on to become an integral member of a Cronulla team which won the 2016 NRL Premiership.

While sharing the duties during Gallen’s final years at the Sharks, upon his retirement Graham officially took over the Cronulla captaincy in 2020.

During those 13 seasons in the top grade at the Sharks and prior that at the Panthers, Graham earnt the respect of his peers, teammates and many in the game.

In addition to 250 games for the Sharks and 42 for the Panthers, Graham also played eight matches for Australia and made six State of Origin appearance for NSW.

In becoming just the third player in club history to play 250th top grade games, Graham joined Gallen and Andrew Ettingshausen in a select group, in confirming his legacy as one of the very best and most consistent performers to ever wear the black, white and blue.

Graham has been named to captain the Sharks in their game against the Titans on Friday night, while expressing to the room his determination to finish his career on a positive note.