The Sharks, save for Ennis, have retained the same side that broke a 50-year title drought with their historic grand final triumph over Melbourne. Ennis stunned the club with his decision to retire and officials have been searching for a replacement ever since.

The premiers attempted to lure Robbie Farah from the Tigers, but the NSW hooker instead signed a two-year deal with South Sydney. The Rabbitohs refused to release another target, Damian Cook, and instead opted to extend his stay at Redfern.

With few other dummy half options on the open market after Dragon Mitch Rein signed with Penrith, Cronulla set their sights on Mortimer. The 27 year old has made 126 NRL appearances at the Eels, Roosters and Titans and will add to that tally in the Shire.

The Tigers had also considered making a play for Mortimer but the Sharks got their man. Mortimer and Tigers recruit Manaia Cherrington are likely to share the dummy half duties.

The Sharks are also close to retaining Chris Heighington, ensuring the club will attempt to go back to back with essentially the same team that won this year's competition.

Captain Paul Gallen considered retirement after lifting the trophy but will play on for one more year.

"The main reason I didn't is because of Wade [Graham] and the club, to be honest," Gallen said.

"We had a senior playing group of me, Wade and Mick, which I thought did a great job this year.

"The way Wade captained and the way it happened was really good. Mick up and left and if I up and left it would leave [a void] of 500 games experience. That would be two blokes and leadership around training. Sure, it would be good for me to finish on top but it would be a bit selfish in a way. I will definitely play next year."