Cronulla is the latest NRLW club to land a cross-code rival with former New Zealand Black Ferns forward Pia Tapsell signing for the next two seasons.
The 25-year-old will join the Sharks in July after finishing season with Perth-based Super W side Western Force.
It’s her first venture in rugby league after representing the Black Ferns in six Tests back in 2019.
She’ll add power up front for the Sharks who come into their second NRLW season ready to improve.
“Pia is the utmost professional having been a full-time athlete for five years,” said Sharks head coach Tony Herman.
“We think she’s a great addition to our squad and we’re excited to see what she’ll bring.”
She joins fellow professional rugby union converts Emma Tonegato and Tiana Penitani at the Sharks, but is the latest across the game to make a switch from the rival code.
Last season Tyla Nathan-Wong, Niall Williams-Guthrie and Cheyelle Robins-Reti all joined the NRLW from the Black Ferns system.
“I’ve always been keen to play in (the NRLW), so I thought I’d give it a try this year,” Tapsell said.
“I really liked the Sharks’ style of play on the field. Just chatting with the coaches, staff and some of the other girls in the team, it seems like a really nice environment.
“It looks like a team that’s growing. I’m keen to grow with the team.”
The NRLW season kicks off on July 27 when the Sharks take on North Queensland at PointsBet Stadium.
Originally published as Sharks land rugby union convert Pia Tapsell in another win for NRLW
