Sharks return for Smith

Former Parramatta and Wigan halfback Tim Smith has officially returned to the NRL after signing with Cronulla.

The 25-year-old joins the Sharks on a two-year-deal after a short stint with Brisbane and Queensland Cup side Easts, with whom he was dually-registered.

Smith, who took a sabbatical from the game in 2008 after revealing his battle from bi-polar disorder, spent two seasons in Super League with Wigan Warriors.

His arrival at the Sharks will be a welcome boost for the club, who have suffered defeats in the opening two rounds of the NRL.

“It’s great to see a player like Tim Smith return to the NRL and given a chance to resurrect his career with the club,” Sharks CEO Richard Fisk said.

“Tim has a lot of potential and it will be great to see him realise it here with the Sharks.

“We would like to thank Easts Brisbane and the Broncos for their support to provide such a positive outcome for Tim.”

Smith joins the Sharks with a glowing endorsement from captain Trent Barrett who played with him whilst at Wigan.