Cronulla's depth is set to undergo a significant test with the Sharks announcing that prop Toby Rudolf will be sidelined for the next three months.
Rudolf sustained an injury to his big toe in Sunday's 32-30 loss to the Warriors and underwent surgery on Tuesday.
The front-rower has become a key component of Craig Fitzgibbon's squad and his absence will be keenly felt.
Rudolf's injury could not have come at a worse time with lock Dale Finucane suspended for the next three weeks.
The Sharks have the bye in round six before facing the Sydney Roosters at home, where Fitzgibbon will have Oregon Kaufusi and Wade Graham back on deck.
Cronulla have begun the season with two wins from their first five games.
