Hayden Buchanan is the latest member to roll off the Gerringong Lions production line to make his NRL debut.

Dragons coach Shane Flanagan has elevated Buchanan to the starting side for this Saturday's Kogarah clash against Cronulla.

Regular centre Mat Feagai has been ruled out of the Sharks stoush due to a groin injury, opening the door for the 19-year-old Steelers junior to follow in the footsteps of Gerringong duo Dylan Egan and Hamish Stewart, who each made their debut earlier this season.

Stewart will also run out against Cronulla but Egan's season ended prematurely due to a torn ACL against the Broncos in May.

Buchanan had been named among the reserves for the first time in his career last week for the upset win over Canberra in Wollongong after crafting an impressive Knock-On Effect NSW Cup campaign this year.

Gerringong's Ashton Ward made his NRL debut recently for South Sydney and has been selected to play his third match for the Rabbitohs in Sunday's road game against Gold Coast.

Buchanan's graduation to the NRL ranks means there will be eight players from Gerringong, including Tyran Wishart, Jackson Ford, Reuben Garrick, and Kyle McCarthy, who have played first grade in 2025.

The Dragons have also announced the extension of Flanagan’s contract for a further two years through to the end of the 2028 NRL season.

“Shane has played a critical role in setting the foundation for where this club is heading,” said Dragons CEO Tim Watsford.

“He’s re-instilled belief in our playing group, coaches and supporters together with reiterating the privilege of wearing the Red V.”

St George Illawarra have a chance to sneak into the NRL finals if they win their remaining five matches and will be fired up to take down their traditional rivals from Cronulla on Saturday.

The Dragons’ NRLW side fell to the Eels 12-10 in their Magic Round clash at McDonald Jones Stadium on Sunday afternoon.

They will look to end their four-game losing streak when they tackle the Sharks at 12.45pm on Saturday before the NRL match at 3pm.