The Auckland Nines are just over two weeks away, with NRL clubs set to finalise their squads within the next week or so. Over the past few years, one highlight of the tournament has been the appearance of retired players.

Some of the tournamentโ€™s most memorable moments in its brief history have come from retired players, with Brad Fitlerโ€™s intercept try and Matt Kingโ€™s extra-time tournament winner at the peak. As retired players become more popular at the Nines, which former player could possibly make an appearance for yourย club at the tournament?

4. Cronulla Sharks โ€“ John Morris

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA - MAY 26: John Morris of the Sharks passes the ball during the round 11 NRL match between the Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks and the South Sydney Rabbitohs at Remondis Stadium on May 26, 2014 in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Renee McKay/Getty Images)

This journeyman has played over 300 NRL games in his career and could be a handy inclusion to a squad where hooking options are limited. The retirement of premiership-winner Michael Ennis leaves recruits Daniel Mortimer and Manaia Cherrington, as well as young gun Jayden Brailey fighting it out for the hooker role.

While the Nines could be a good place to let the hookers battle it out, itโ€™s more likely Shane Flanagan will save them for the official trial matches, leaving a gap at rake for the Nines squad. John Morris carries a wealth of experience and his service from dummy-half could see the Sharks progress deep into the tournamentโ€™s finals.

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