Cronulla Sharks have landed the signature of former Canberra Raider and Sydney Roosters hooker Matt McIlwick on a one year deal, with an option for a second year.

The twenty-four year old has shown promise in a short career spanning four seasons and twenty-seven appearances.  He filled in admirably for Roosters first choice rake Jake Friend at the start of 2015 who was recovering from injury.

McIlrick told the Cronulla Sharks website his enthusiasm for the move down to the Shire.

“I’m looking forward to the opportunity over the next couple of years,” McIlwrick said. “It’s a great team here going forward and being able to learn off Michael Ennis and a few of the other boys will be awesome.”

With Ennis off contract at the end of 2016, McIlwrick could end up first choice hooker in 2017 if he stays with the Sharks.

Earlier in the week reports suggested St George-Illawarra Dragons were chasing the Kiwi born McIlwrick as a backup for Mitch Rein. Rumour continue to link Robbie Farah with the Dragons with Tigers coach Jason Taylor’s decision to ‘bench’ him after signing Matt Ballin recently.