NRLW 2024: Sharks land Knights’ premiership star Caitlan Johnston in huge signing coup

The Sharks have landed a huge signing coup with one of NRLW’s biggest stars to join the club in 2025.

Caitlan Johnston (C) will join Cronulla in 2025. Picture: Jason McCawley/Getty Images

Cronulla have stunned the NRLW playing market by signing Newcastle star Caitlan Johnston on a three-year deal starting from 2025.

The two-time premiership-winning forward is one of the rising stars of the women’s game having earned NSW and Australia honours over the past two seasons on the back of duals titles with the Knights.

At 23 she’s one of the most dynamic forwards in the NRLW with more room to improve at the Sharks.

“This is a significant coup for our club given Caitlan has firmly established herself as one of the premier forwards in the NRLW and a terrific leader,” said Sharks coach Tony Herman.

“She’s already scaled the heights of the game, but at 23, her best years are still ahead of her. We look forward to her coming on board in 2025 and sharing her experience.”

Johnston has previously captained the Women’s Indigenous All Stars team and comes to the Sharks next year with plenty of experience.

After a disappointing first season in the NRLW in 2023, the Sharks are quietly building an impressive squad that already boasts internationals Tiana Penitani, Emma Tonegato and Qunicy Dodd.

Johnston’s loss will be a massive hole to fill for the Knights.

A local talent, she progressed through the club’s pathways before making her NRW debut with the Roosters in 2018.

She returned to the Knights in 2021.

Originally published as NRLW 2024: Sharks land Knights’ premiership star Caitlan Johnston in huge signing coup