There was a lot of speculation about where he would end up, but the process has been swift – with the Cronulla Sharks announcing the signing of Panthers utility Luke Lewis, on a 4-year deal.
Lewis, who will join the Sharks from next season, made his debut as an 18-year old in 2001, and has represented both NSW and Australia, during his 11-year career in the NRL so far.
For Sharks coach Shane Flanagan, he believes that the signing of Lewis further strengthens their roster, and it gives them considerable depth at the club.
“Luke Lewis is a quality player and with the number of clubs in the race to sign him we (sharks) are so excited to welcome Luke and his wife Sonia to our club,†Flanagan said.
“I’ve coached Luke in his early days when he was in the Junior Kangaroos and later with my involvement with NSW Origin and look forward to him being a part of exciting times ahead for the Sharks.â€
Lewis, who had a number of other clubs chasing him, said that he is pleased to have his future sorted, and that he looks forward to playing for the Sharks from next season.
“I’m happy to announce that I have come to terms with the Sharks on a four-year contract,†Lewis said today.
“I felt the Sharks was a club best suited to me on a professional and personal level and have a genuine belief that with the players and coaching staff that are at the club, combined with the plans that are in place for the coming years at the club, that the future will see success both on and off the park.â€