Cronulla have won the race for Penrith's representative forward and deposed captain Luke Lewis.

It's believed Lewis, who sought a release from the Panthers, has agreed to a four-year deal with the Sharks.

New Shark ... Luke Lewis Credit:Getty Images

Wests Tigers, who were also vying for the signature of the back-rower, were informed of the decision this morning.

An official announcement is expected later today.

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With a new coach Ivan Cleary rebuilding the Panthers, Lewis is the most high-profile casualty to date at the club. He was stripped of the club captaincy during the State of Origin period, before he asked for a release from the Panthers after the representative series ended.

His friendship with Sharks captain Paul Gallen, as well as his former Penrith teammate Wade Graham, now at Cronulla, no doubt played a role in his decision, as did his desire to live in the area.



