NRL news 2026: Sharks vs Storm result, Siulagi Tuimalatu-Brown stretchered off, Michael Gabrael, Ronaldo Mulitalo sin bins
The Cronulla Sharks faced the Melbourne Storm in a high-stakes NRL match marked by injuries and disciplinary issues. Two players were sin-binned, and a Storm winger was stretchered off following a high tackle.
Why it matters
The match highlights the physical intensity and disciplinary challenges present in professional rugby league as teams approach the finals.
Sport NRL NRL Storm winger stretchered off as two players binned before chaotic finish Lachlan Harper Updated September 5, 2026 - 11.57am . First published at 10.27am
shares Share article Sharks coach Craig Fitzgibbon would’ve done well not to punch another monitor after his side went down to 11-men in a fiery start against Melbourne before losing in the final seconds.
The first sin bin came in the fifth minute when Michael Gabrael hit Storm winger Siulagi Tuimalatu-Brown high.
Siulagi Tuimalatu-Brown is stretchered off the field. Getty Images
Tuimalatu-Brown had to be stretchered off the field after the incident, before Gabrael was given a 10-minute punishment.
On Nine’s coverage, Brad Fittler was asked if Gabrael was lucky it wasn’t a send-off.
“He’s absolutely fortunate,” was Fittler’s blunt reply.
Tuimalatu-Brown was conscious in the sheds after the incident, with Melbourne considering a hospital visit to assess any nerve damage.
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