Ricky Stuart and the Cronulla Sharks continue to build their war chest for the 2009 NRL season, today signing Bulldogs long term servant Corey Hughes.
A smart addition for the Sharks who have already added Anthony Tupou from the Sydney Roosters and former NRL star Trent Barrett to their books for 2009. Hughes has never really been appreciated at the Bulldogs and the veteran hooker should thrive in new surroundings with appreciative support. Hughes has been playing well this year despite the Bulldogs poor NRL Results so far. With so many young exciting prospects on offer at the Sharks, the addition of Corey Hughes and Trent Barrett adds good experience and stability to the sometimes volatile Sharks team.
Hughes, who has spent 10 years and played more than 200 NRL games for the Bulldogs, leaves after the Dogs successfully signed Brisbane rake Michael Ennis to the club for next season.
Despite his age, Hughes is in some of the finest form of his career and was this year finally rewarded with selection in the NSW City Origin side. A creative and robust hooker, Hughes has a knack similar to Danny Buderus the way he can sniff out a penalty as he scraps hard around the ruck.
“Corey brings a competitive edge as well as a wealth of experience to the club and despite being 30-years of age is in the best form of his career,” said Sharks chief executive Tony Zappia.
The signing means more confidence for the Sharks and will be a welcomed boost as they continue to achieve good results on the NRL field this year.