What’s the Buzz: How the Sharks could end up losing Dally M leader

Cronulla may not even make an offer to star fullback and current Dally M leader Will Kennedy, after leaving themselves with just $300,000 in next year’s cap to give their No.1.

A salary-cap squeeze has left the future of the Cronulla Sharks’ dashing fullback and Dally M leader Will Kennedy in grave danger.

The Sharks have little more than $300,000 left in the salary cap next year to keep the popular 28-year-old, who is in career-best form.

Only a heavily back-ended deal will potentially solve the problem.

The Sharks are in such a squeeze that they have not made an offer to Kennedy or his manager because it could be seen as insulting to ask a player of his standing to take $300,000 when he is already earning more than $500,000.

Kennedy is leading the Dally M count after nine rounds on 27 points from the Wests Tigers’ Terrell May (26) and champion Roosters fullback James Tedesco (24).

William Kennedy could be squeezed out of Cronulla due to salary cap pressures. Picture: Getty Images

Cronulla officials declined to comment on the eve of today’s big game against Manly at Brookvale.

They are aware of Kennedy’s popularity and standing among his teammates.

In the past 12 months the Sharks have signed Addin Fonua-Blake for more than $1 million and upgraded four key players - winger Ronaldo Mulitalo, five-eighth Braydon Trindall and

second-rowers Briton Nikora and Teig Wilton.

They also have halfback Nicho Hynes on more than $1 million.

Hence the lack of funds to pay Kennedy what he is worth - around the $600,000 mark or even more when you consider the best fullbacks in the game - Tedesco, Tom Trbojevic, Dylan Edwards, Reece Walsh, Kalyn Ponga and Latrell Mitchell are all million-dollar players.

If Cronulla can’t find the cash or move on other players, his manager will no doubt go to

the open market.

It will be tough on Kennedy because he loves the Sharks and wears the jersey each week with so much pride.

However, there is no doubt rival clubs will be lining up to make an offer.

Especially with expansion coming and new clubs the Perth Bears and PNG looking for a fullback of his ability and standing in the game.

Originally published as What’s the Buzz: How the Sharks could end up losing Dally M leader