McInnes reveals Sharks departure likely, set to return from ACL injury early

Cameron McInnes has all but confirmed he is likely to leave the Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks at the end of the season, conceding the 'writing is on the wall' as the club battles salary cap pressure.

Speaking on Chiming In, the veteran lock revealed contract talks with Cronulla had effectively stalled, with the club unable to table an offer for beyond 2026.

“I think the Sharks have done a good job of keeping everybody together for probably longer than they thought they could,” McInnes said.

“But with that comes cap strain. There’s eight or nine guys in the 17 each week that are off contract. The club’s in a tricky position trying to keep as many as they can.

“For myself, the conversations have been that they can’t really make an offer right now and they’re not sure what that would look like.”

The 32-year-old admitted recent recruitment decisions had further signalled his time at the club could be nearing an end.

“There’s been a few decisions the club have made signing other guys who play similar positions to me,” he said.

“So the writing’s on the wall a little bit there. More than likely I don’t think I would be at the club, but you never know what can happen in footy.”

While McInnes said he would prefer to remain in the Shire, he insisted he understood the club’s position and remains fully committed to the Sharks’ premiership push this season.

“I’d love to stay and that would be my preference, but I understand clubs have to do what they think is best,” he said.

“I still have this year and it’s a huge opportunity for us. I truly believe I can be a big part of that.”

Currently working his way back from an ACL injury suffered late last year, McInnes said his return is on the horizon.

“I don’t have an exact start date, but I wouldn’t be looking too much past round five,” McCinnes said.

“The strength and power in the knee is the same as the other side now. It’s just ticking off those last few footy movements.”

With his future uncertain, McInnes acknowledged rival clubs may wait to see him return to the field before making a move. One potential option looms in the form of the NRL’s incoming expansion side, the Perth Bears, who are set to enter the competition next year.

McInnes admitted the prospect of joining the new franchise would be appealing.

“100 per cent,” he said when asked if he would consider the move.

“To be part of an expansion club would be a once-in-a-career opportunity. Not many come along.

“I’ve played in Perth a few times and it’s a beautiful city. There’s a lot more league fans there than people probably think.”

Despite the uncertainty around his future, McInnes remains focused on returning from injury and helping Cronulla chase a premiership with the current playing group.

“I believe this group has another opportunity,” he said.

“We’ve been together for a number of years and this might be the last chance for this group as it’s currently built.”

McInnes, who recently turned 32, added he still hopes to play several more seasons in the NRL and remains as motivated as ever to continue his career at the top level.

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