NRL Round 2: Will Kennedy, the hat-trick hero, is praised by Sharks coach Craig Fitzgibbon.

Will Kennedy has received praise from Cronulla Sharks head coach Craig Fitzgibbon, who also disclosed that talks to re-sign the fullback for 2024 are underway.

Kennedy’s first career hat-trick proved to be the difference as the visitors prevailed 30-26 at CommBank Stadium on Friday night in a high-scoring match against the Eels.

Three of Cronulla’s five tries were scored by the 25-year-old, Braydon Trindall, the stand-in halfback, had an excellent night on the field, and Matt Moylan, the five-eighth, finished the game with style.