Reliability is a key factor for NRL coaches and rugby league teams and Billy Burns is one name that stands out for the Cronulla Sharks as an unsung hero.
A hard worker, a toiler and a player that has impressed the coaching brass at the Sharks, Burns has earned a new contract with the club until the end of the 2028 season.
It was a breakout campaign for Burns in 2025, a season that saw him 17 games, with his tenure in the side continuing into the opening rounds of the 2026 season.
Burns, a Parkes Spacemen junior, is grateful to the club for the opportunity and is keen to see how much further he and the club can go over the next few years.
“The club took a chance on me a couple of years ago and to be able to repay that has definitely made me feel happy and grateful for the opportunity,” Burns said.
“I’m keen to see where we can go in the next couple of years.
“I feel proud, but I wouldn’t have been able to do it without the people in the building. The coaching staff especially, they’ve been really good driving me, and then I have a great bunch of guys around to push me and learn off.”
Sharks General Manager of Football Darren Mooney praised Burns for his work ethic, his tenacity and his versatility.
“This deal is testament to Billy’s unwavering work ethic and his constant desire to improve his game,” Mooney said.
“He was determined to make the most of his opportunity at the Sharks and has worked his way up to being a regular presence in our squad.
“With the ability to play on an edge and in the middle, he brings great versatility.”