Overview

• Hughes fractured his forearm in Round 27, underwent plate-and-screw surgery, and missed the qualifying final.
• He has resumed open training and contact, with teammates reporting positive physio feedback, but Harry Grant says he still has a fair bit to get through.
• Further assessments at another session and the captain’s run will determine whether coaches name him, with Jonah Pezet ready if he is not passed fit.
• Fullback Ryan Papenhuyzen is available and back-rower Shawn Blore has been cleared, while Nelson Asofa-Solomona remains unavailable due to suspension.
• Cronulla arrive in strong form with nine wins from their past ten; prop Tom Hazelton is out under concussion protocols and Toby Rudolf has been cleared to play.