Mulitalo takes centre stage for NRL Sharks

George Clarke | March 16, 2022

Cronulla’s Ronaldo Mulitalo hopes to establish himself as one of the NRL’s top centres after finally getting the blessing to move off his wing.

Mulitalo, who is still just 22, began his NRL career on the flank for the Sharks, scoring 27 tries in 40 games after making his debut in 2019.

After being stuck behind Josh Dugan, Josh Morris and Will Chambers in recent years, Mulitalo has been handed the chance to make the Sharks’ left centre spot his own under new coach Craig Fitzgibbon.

“It’s a different role to cutting grass out there on the wing and you have to make more tackles,” Mulitalo said.

“I want to establish myself there if I get the opportunity to.

“I’d never played wing in my life but I got to practise my craft there.

“I’ve been a big advocate for when you come through to the NRL that beggars can’t be choosers.

“I’d encourage every man or woman to not be one sided when they’re playing footy and be open to anything.”

Mulitalo played centre as a junior and his switch means the Sharks have been unable to find a spot for talented utility Connor Tracey in the opening two rounds of the season. 

As apprenticeships go, the 22-year-old says he couldn’t have had it any better with Morris, Dugan and Chambers all having played for Australia at the peak of their powers.  

“Chambers was a massive one,” Mulitalo said. 

“Watching him get around the park and he had a bit of niggle in him which he made it known (to the opposition).

“He doesn’t change for anybody and I love that about him. He was the ultimate competitor and J-Moz’s (Morris) work ethic was unreal.

“I think they were all awesome for me and they’ve all played a part.”