Cronulla’s forward stocks have taken a blow after prop Sam Tagataese was ruled out of this week’s NRL clash with St George Illawarra due to a shoulder injury.

Tagataese left the field clutching his shoulder in the Sharks’ loss to Canberra on Saturday, and while he’s certain to miss the Dragons fixture, he could also be out until the finals.

After missing the loss to the Raiders, veteran hooker Michael Ennis was a limited participant in Tuesday’s field session, but is expected to be back to take on the Dragons.