C.ex Coffs International Stadium will play host to Saturday's Round 12 NRL game between Cronulla Sharks and Newcastle Knights. The game kicks off at 3:00 pm with Cronulla Sharks heading into the game as favourites with the bookmakers. Continue reading for our in-depth preview of the Cronulla Sharks vs. Newcastle Knights game and give you our free tips and bets.

When: Saturday May 20, 2023 at 3:00 pm

Where: C.ex Coffs International Stadium

Bet: Bet On This Match HERE

Cronulla Sharks vs Newcastle Knights Odds

Cronulla Sharks vs Newcastle Knights Preview

Fourth-placed Cronulla is a warm $1.32 favourite to put away a Newcastle side coming off its biggest win of 2023, achieved courtesy of a major form turnaround from a maligned marquee man.

Shocked 36-16 by the Dolphins in Magic Round, the Sharks responded with a 20-14 victory at Manly spearheaded by Nicho Hynes and Briton Nikora. It was, however, disappointing they were forced into a nervy finish after leading 20-2 at the hour mark.

The Sharks are again without Siosifa Talakai, while Oregon Kaufusi returns in time to replace Cameron McInnes, who suffered a broken hand on Sunday.

The Knights had been gritty all season in the face of a heavy injury toll – until a limp 43-12 loss at Parramatta in Round 9 that was highlighted by a turnstile defensive performance from the recently returned Kalyn Ponga.

But following the Magic Round bye, Ponga ignited in last Sunday’s home clash with the Titans, producing three beautiful try-assists and then a sizzling 60-metre solo try as the Knights turned an 18-12 deficit into a runaway 46-26 win.

Bradman Best and Dom Young scored two tries apiece for the Knights, who jumped to 11th with a 4-1-5 record.

Cronulla has won 10 of its last 14 against Newcastle overall – breaking a four-match losing streak with wins at home (18-0) and away (38-16) in 2022. The Sharks have taken games to Coffs Harbour for the past two seasons, beating Gold Coast 38-10 and 18-10.

It’s a vital clash for both teams ahead of a tricky Origin period that will likely see Hynes and Ponga unavailable for some games. Eager to further prove the Dolphins loss was an aberration, the Sharks should get the result – but a 9.5-point start is a bit generous.

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