In a passionate defense of his star halfback, Cronulla Sharks chairman Steve Mace has expressed his frustration over the intense criticism directed at Nicho Hynes, labeling it as "narrow-minded" and "borderline un-Australian." Hynes, who won the NRL’s Dally M Medal in 2022, has faced a torrent of scrutiny following a lackluster start to the 2025 season, where the Sharks currently sit 10th on the ladder with two wins from four matches.
After a disappointing loss to ladder-leaders Canterbury last week, NRL great Andrew Johns voiced his confusion regarding Hynes’ performances. "When the game was on the line, I didn’t see Nicho in the last 10 to 15 minutes," Johns stated during the commentary, reflecting a sentiment shared by many fans and pundits alike. "I really have no idea how to rebuild it." This assessment has not only added pressure on Hynes but has also drawn the ire of Mace, who believes the criticism is unwarranted.
Mace articulated his thoughts in an interview with News Corp, asserting, "You can’t be a superstar all day, every day on the field. He’s still a human being. People have to get off his back." He further criticized the culture of Australian sports, suggesting it embodies a "tall poppy syndrome," where those at the top are often targeted for downfall. "If Nicho was your family member, how would you feel?" he challenged, urging fans to reconsider their harsh judgments.
Sharks coach Craig Fitzgibbon has also been drawn into the discussion, previously describing the situation surrounding Hynes as "a bit weird" following the Sharks’ 36-12 defeat to the Cowboys in Round 2. Fitzgibbon’s comments reflect a growing concern about the narratives forming around Hynes after only a handful of games this season.
The scrutiny on Hynes has intensified, especially with the emergence of Braydon Trindall as a potential dominant playmaker for the Sharks. Some fans and commentators have suggested that Hynes has been relegated to a secondary role, further complicating his situation. Despite this, Mace insists that Hynes is fulfilling the responsibilities assigned to him by the coaching staff. "We don’t want a superstar. We want someone to do their job," he explained. "So if the coach is happy, then get off his back. It’s that simple."
As the Sharks prepare to face the Canberra Raiders on Thursday night, April 3, 2025, Hynes will undoubtedly be under the microscope. The Raiders, known for their physical play, are a formidable opponent, especially when playing at home, where they are typically 10 to 12 points better. Mace acknowledges the challenge ahead, noting that Hynes will face a tough test from Raiders backrower Hudson Young, who is set to target him throughout the match.
Andrew Johns has also weighed in on the upcoming match, predicting a tough outing for Hynes. "Canberra will be coming straight through the middle with their forwards looking to offload and bring their small men into play," he mentioned. The Sharks will need to be prepared for a gritty battle, as the Raiders are known for their aggressive defense and tactical play.
"I can smell an ambush and an upset," Johns declared, hinting at the potential for the Raiders to capitalize on the Sharks' current struggles. The matchup will also feature a significant individual battle between Sharks’ Addin Fonua-Blake and Raiders’ Joe Tapine, both of whom are key figures in their respective forward packs.
In the lead-up to the match, Mace continues to call for unity among Sharks fans, urging them to support their players rather than contribute to the negativity surrounding the team. "If you call yourself a Sharks fan, then support your players, team, and club. Why are we bringing the game down? Let’s remove the negativity from the game," he implored.
As Hynes prepares to take the field, he carries not only the weight of his own expectations but also those of a fanbase eager for success. The Sharks’ fortunes this season may very well hinge on Hynes’ ability to shake off the criticism and perform at the level that earned him accolades just a few seasons ago.
While his recent performances have raised eyebrows, the Sharks and their supporters remain hopeful that Hynes can rediscover the form that made him a standout player. With a contract reportedly worth $1.1 million per season until 2029, the pressure is on for Hynes to deliver when it matters most.
As the Sharks gear up for their clash with the Raiders, the narrative surrounding Nicho Hynes will be closely watched, not just for his performance on the field but also for how he handles the scrutiny off it. In a sport where criticism is part of the territory, Mace’s message resonates: players are human too, and they deserve support, not scorn.
In the end, the Sharks’ ability to rally around their halfback may prove crucial as they navigate the challenges of the season ahead. With the stakes higher than ever, can Nicho Hynes silence the doubters and lead his team to victory?
