Cronulla captain Paul Gallen yesterday signed a one year deal to remain with the Sharks for the 2019 season.
The deal will make him the first man to play 19 consecutive seasons with an NRL club.
“Today I signed what will probably be my last playing contract,” Gallen posted on social media on Tuesday.
“I won’t say there’s nothing I’d change we’ve had some hard days but also the most amazing ones.
“I’ve played in every game around the world and had success at all levels.
“Thanks @cronullasharks for the opportunity.
“I’m here for one reason, to have success in 2019, 20 years after my first deal.”
Gallen has played 326 games for the Sharks and has the chance to join the exclusive 350 game club in 2019.
The veteran backrower will be 38 when his career draws to a close at the end of next season.
He needs just two more appearances to become the most capped player in Cronulla’s history, surpassing Andrew Ettingshausen’s mark of 328 games.
The former Blues’ skipper turned back the clock in 2018, averaging a club best 138 metres per game.
Gallen is said to have signed the deal, which will be a lot less than most of his previous contracts, with Sharks’ CEO Barry Russell on Tuesday morning.
Gallen is recovering from a shoulder injury suffered against the Panthers in the semi-finals, which prematurely ended his 2018 campaign.
However he is expected to have fully recovered in time for round one of next season.
It’s understood Gallen may play less minutes in 2019 as young up and comers Jack Williams and Scott Sorensen are given more game time.
The Sharks, who lost Luke Lewis at the end of 2018, will benefit from his experience and leadership skills for another 12 months.
He racked up 32 caps for Australia and 24 for NSW in a decorated rep career.
