<ul> <li>Cronulla Sharks star Ronaldo Mulitalo suffers devastating ACL rupture during New Zealand's victory over Samoa</li> <li>The winger faces 9-12 months on the sidelines, likely missing the entire 2026 NRL season</li> <li>Sam Stonestreet and Sione Katoa set to battle for long-term wing positions at the Sharks</li> </ul> <p>Cronulla Sharks winger Ronaldo Mulitalo has ruptured his ACL while representing New Zealand, ruling him out for up to 12 months.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2>Mulitalo Faces Season-Ending ACL Injury</h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>The devastating blow struck during New Zealand's recent victory over Samoa, with Mulitalo unable to complete the match after suffering the knee injury. The Sharks have since confirmed their star winger has ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament, requiring major surgery within the next week.</p> <p>Mulitalo's ACL injury carries a recovery timeline of nine to twelve months, casting serious doubt over his availability for the 2026 NRL season. In the best-case scenario, the talented outside back may return around August, potentially giving him just one month of regular season action. However, the worst-case timeline suggests Mulitalo could miss the entire campaign.</p> <p>The injury represents a significant setback for both player and club. Mulitalo had established himself as a walk-up starter for Craig Fitzgibbon's side and remained a key figure in New Zealand's international setup. His explosive pace and finishing ability have made him one of the NRL's most dangerous wingers in recent seasons.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2>Sharks Wing Spots Up for Grabs</h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Mulitalo's extended absence creates an immediate opportunity for Sam Stonestreet and Sione Katoa to cement their positions in the Sharks' 2026 lineup. Both players are expected to occupy the wing positions, with the injury effectively opening up long-term roster spots.</p> <p>The situation becomes particularly intriguing given both Stonestreet and Katoa are off-contract at the end of 2026. This creates a natural competition between the pair, with the player demonstrating the strongest form likely to secure a new deal beyond next season.</p> <p>Katoa has served as Mulitalo's regular wing partner at the Shire-based club, bringing experience and reliability to the position. However, Stonestreet represents the future for Cronulla, with the towering winger recently signing a one-year extension after attracting interest from St George Illawarra Dragons.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2>Contract Implications and Future Moves</h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>The ACL injury adds another layer of complexity to the Sharks' roster planning. With Mulitalo sidelined, the club must reassess their backline structure and potentially their recruitment strategy for 2027 and beyond.</p> <p>Both Stonestreet and Katoa could attract attention from rival clubs when the November 1 negotiation window opens. The Perth Bears, preparing for their NRL entry in 2027, represent a particular threat as they begin assembling their inaugural 30-man squad.</p> <p>The injury timeline means Mulitalo will undergo surgery imminently, beginning what looms as a lengthy rehabilitation process. Modern ACL reconstruction techniques have improved recovery outcomes, but the 9-12 month timeframe remains standard for professional athletes returning to elite competition.</p> <p>For Sportsbet punters tracking NRL futures markets, Mulitalo's absence significantly impacts Cronulla's 2026 premiership prospects. The Sharks will need their remaining outside backs to step up considerably to maintain their competitive edge in what promises to be another fiercely contested NRL season.</p> <p>The injury serves as a reminder of rugby league's physical demands, with ACL ruptures among the most challenging setbacks any player can face. Mulitalo's journey back to full fitness will require patience, but his proven track record suggests he possesses the determination needed for a successful comeback.</p>