York Knights have confirmed the signing of Cam McInnes from Cronulla Sharks ahead of the 2027 Super League season, in a move that head coach Mark Applegarth has described as a ‘real statement’.

McInnes to York is a move that’s long since been reported, with outlets down under reporting the news back in May. Just a week before those reports, Mark Applegarth had confirmed that McInnes was ‘100%’ a player that the Knights would be interested in, and York have now announced his signing.

The 32-year-old can play at either hooker or in the pack, with the majority of his 15 games for the Sharks this season coming at loose forward. Having debuted for South Sydney, McInnes became a mainstay at St George ahead of his move to join the Sharks, whom he debuted for in 2022.

To date, McInnes has played over 240 NRL games and he could well add to that in the final round of the season, as well as the play-offs, with Cronulla currently sat fifth.

When he bows out of the NRL, he will join the Knights on a three-year deal, bringing a close on his 13-year NRL career and the former Origin star couldn’t be happier.

“I’m really excited to be joining the Knights,” the Australian said.

“It has always been an ambition of mine to play in the Super League, experience a different competition and to get the opportunity to do it in York with a team just starting out it’s journey was hugely motivating.

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“I can’t wait to meet my new teammates and rip in with them.”

York Knights boss explains what McInnes will bring

For head coach Mark Applegarth, McInnes is a player who can take the Knights to the next level, both on and off the pitch in terms of the standards that he will set.

In doing so, he’ll add to the experience that the likes of Paul Vaughan and Paul McShane have offered during the Knights’ first year in Super League.

“Cam’s a real statement signing for us,” Applegarth said.

“After chatting with Cam numerous times now, he’s going to be a real culture setter for us.He’s got really high standards for himself and his team mates. He helps drive a certain standard within your environment. On top of that he’s an outstanding player and person as well.”

Applegarth added: “I think Cam’s going to be a real quality signing not only for York Knights but Super League as well.

“I can’t work to get working with him and get to know his family and push York Knights forward.”