The Sharks have secured a major boost by extending the contract of Springbok utility back Ethan Hooker until the end of 2029.
Hooker had already been contracted through to 2027 after signing a new deal following his breakthrough 2024 season, but his rapid rise over the past 18 months has convinced the Sharks to lock him in for a further two years.
Still only in the early stages of his career, Hooker has quickly established himself as one of the most exciting young talents in South African rugby and a key figure in the Sharks squad that head coach JP Pietersen is building around.
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The versatile back made his Test debut for the Springboks against Italy on 12 July 2025 and announced himself on the international stage during the Rugby Championship.
Hooker earned widespread praise for his first Test start on the right wing in the Boks’ commanding 43-10 victory over the All Blacks in Wellington.
Equally comfortable in midfield or on the wing, Hooker has built a reputation for his defensive intensity, relentless work rate and eye for the spectacular. One of the standout moments of his young Test career came against Italy in November, when he gathered a pinpoint cross-kick from Manie Libbok to score his first international try.
Hooker’s momentum was briefly halted in April when he dislocated his shoulder after scoring a try in the Sharks’ Vodacom URC clash against the Ospreys.
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The 23-year-old underwent successful surgery in Durban and is set to miss the Springboks’ opening Nations Championship Tests against England, Scotland and Wales.
The good news for both the Sharks and the Springboks is that Hooker is expected to be fit again in time for the blockbuster Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry series against New Zealand in August and September.
Off (and on) the Hook! 🪝
The one-and-only Ethan Hooker has committed his future to the Hollywoodbets Sharks! 🦈 pic.twitter.com/GeITvb8m6i
— The Sharks (@SharksRugby) May 20, 2026
Photo: Steve Haag Sports/Gallo Images
