NRL Market Watch: Tom Hazelton, Sharks, agree to new deal

Sharks cult hero Tom Hazelton has ended months of speculation over his future after agreeing to a new three-year, $1.5 million deal. Details inside.

Thomas Hazelton has locked in his future. Picture: Getty Images

The Cronulla Sharks have secured cult-hero front-rower Tom Hazelton on a three-year $1.5 million deal, ending months of speculation over his future.

Rival NRL clubs Newcastle, the Dolphins, the Warriors and St George-Illawarra, who all bid for his services, were told on Tuesday night that Hazelton had chosen to stick loyal to the Sharks.

Hazelton made the decision after talks with his manager when he arrived home from Las Vegas.

Tom Hazelton ended months of speculation with his decision. Picture: Getty Images

He had indicated last week to this masthead of his desire to remain a Shark.

“There’s definitely something special brewing here under Fitzy and all his staff,’’ he said.

“For me, this isn’t about money, it’s about wanting to be at a club that will continue to develop my game, while also being successful.

“I know that will happen at the Sharks, but I also appreciate there’s a couple of other clubs that see that in themselves also, which is what I have to weigh up.”

Hazelton had also been linked to Melbourne, although it was furiously denied by Storm general manager Frank Ponissi.

Originally published as NRL Market Watch: Tom Hazelton, Sharks, agree to new deal