Bukuya's 2-year 'reward'TALENTED back rower Jason Bukuya has been rewarded for his good form with a new, two-year contract with Cronulla Sharks.
Bukuya, 22, has managed to shake off injuries which dogged him the past 18 months, to this season show why he is so highly regarded in the Sharks big forward pack.
A solid defender, Bukuya has also impressed with the ball in hand and has been a regular starter in a back row which has featured Origin captain Paul Gallen, Kiwi international Jeremy Smith and former Test forward, Anthony Tupou.
"I've been happy to play without problems and contribute to a winning side," said the Fiji World Cup player.
"I think we've turned the corner and been successful the past month because of our attitude, and realising the goals set for us, on and off the field."
Bukuya may be forced to dig deep with an injury cloud hanging over Smith (knee) and five-eighth Wade Graham (sternum) for Saturday's 5.30pm game against Canberra Raiders at Toyota Stadium, with the Sharks aiming for four straight wins.
"There were a few niggly injuries suffered in our loss to Souths but I think we should all be ok by Saturday," Bukuya said. "Besides, we owe the Raiders one after our round one loss down there."
Bukuya's re-signing follows hot on the heels of talented outside back Matt Wright inking a new deal, the Sharks now having re-signed most of their 2011 backs.
Canberra's Tom Learoyd-Lahrs joins another big Raiders' forward, David Shillington, on the injured list after a torn biceps tendon ended his season. Dane Tilse has replaced him.
Canberra has not named NSW full-back Josh Dugan, but Raiders coach David Furner hinted on Monday he could start.
The Harvey Norman Sharks Week comes to an end this Sunday with a $12,000 giveaway at its Caringbah store.
Today, between noon and 1pm, fans get the chance to meet the Sharks coaching staff in workshops, with NRL coaches Shane Flanagan, Joey Grima and head trainer Trent Elkin.
On Friday, there is pass the ball competitions and on Sunday, 1pm- 2.30pm, meet Sharks' stars Kade Snowden, Chad Townsend, Paul Aiton, Tim Smith and Scott Porter, and meet and dance with the Mermaids before the $12,000 prize draw.
Source: The Leader
Topic: Hints on Dugan and Bukuya's 2-year 'reward'
