Mawene Hiroti’s Future Looks Set for Gold Coast Titans
The Cronulla Sharks have reportedly turned down an immediate release request for versatile outside back Mawene Hiroti. The centre and winger has already signed with the Gold Coast Titans on a two-year contract, set to begin in the 2027 NRL season. This move comes after Hiroti was retained by the Sharks over the years through a series of single-season deals.
This new contract could mark a significant shift for Hiroti, offering him a chance to step beyond his role as a substitute player. However, the opportunity might have arrived earlier had the Titans managed to secure his transfer sooner.
Recent reports suggest that the Gold Coast approached the Sharks with a proposal for Hiroti to make the move immediately. This would have allowed him to gain valuable NRL minutes in the 2026 season. This development is not entirely unexpected, given Josh Hannay’s positive opinion of Hiroti and the Titans’ struggles in the outside back positions.
Depth Concerns at the Gold Coast Titans
The Gold Coast, who recently secured their first win of the season, currently has limited depth in the outside back positions. They only have a couple of players within their Top 30 roster who can fill these roles. Questions have been raised about the consistency of the group selected each week by coach Josh Hannay.
AJ Brimson has been moved to the centres, while Jaylan De Groot, who has been overlooked since Round 1, and Max Feagai are now outside the 17. Siale Faeamani, who joined from the Penrith Panthers during the off-season, along with Jojo Fifita and Phillip Sami, are the other three players available for the outside back positions. Tony Francis and former Shark Jensen Taumoepeau also sit outside the 17.
Hiroti’s Position at Cronulla Sharks
At Cronulla, Hiroti finds himself well down the pecking order. If the starting crop of outside backs—Sam Stonestreet, Sione Katoa, Jesse Ramien, and KL Iro—face issues, both Michael Gabreal and Chris Vea’ila are more likely to see game time before him.
Despite this, the Sharks are hesitant to risk their depth by allowing Hiroti to leave a year early for the Gold Coast. The decision reflects the club’s cautious approach to managing their squad.
Potential Impact of New Signings
The recent signing of Phillip Sami by the St George Illawarra Dragons for the 2027 season adds another layer to Hiroti’s potential role at the Gold Coast. His presence could create more opportunities for Hiroti to contribute in the coming seasons.
Josh Hannay has consistently praised Hiroti, describing him as one of the most underrated outside backs in the competition. Despite playing just 34 games since his NRL debut in 2018, Hiroti has shown consistent performance at the reserve grade level, indicating his potential to make a significant impact if given the chance.
Looking Ahead
As the 2027 season approaches, Hiroti’s move to the Gold Coast could be a turning point in his career. With the right opportunities, he may finally break out of his role as a substitute and establish himself as a key player for the Titans. The decision by the Sharks to hold onto him for now highlights the delicate balance between maintaining team depth and allowing players to pursue new challenges.
