sport, nrl

Cooper Cronk could add another award to his bulging trophy cabinet with the NRL champion among the nominees for "The Don" award at the annual Sport Australia Hall of Fame ceremony. The Sydney Roosters superstar halfback retired after his team's grand final triumph on Sunday night, now owning four NRL premierships, two Dally M medals, seven Queensland Origin series wins and two World Cup titles. Named after cricket legend Don Bradman, The Don award recognises an Australian sporting star whose achievements over the past year have most inspired the nation, with the winner announced at a ceremony on Thursday night in Melbourne. Cronk is up against tennis grand slam champions Dylan Alcott and Ashleigh Barty, three-time tour de France stage winner Caleb Ewan, world surfing champion Stephanie Gilmore, motor ace Craig Lowndes, cricket stars Ellyse Perry and Tim Paine, plus swimming world champion Ariarne Titmus. Wheelchair athlete Kurt Fearnley won it last year while boxer Jeff Horn and jockey Michelle Payne are recent recipients. Seven Australians including the likes of commentator Dennis Cometti and soccer legend Cheryl Salisbury will also be inducted as members of the Sport Australia Hall of Fame, while the 41st Legend of Australian sport will be unveiled. Late Test cricketer and commentator Richie Benaud was last year's Legend. Australian Associated Press

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