A proposed move to Wakefield Trinity for Andrew Fifita has been put on hold following the shock departure of Cronulla coach John Morris.

Morris left the Sharks suddenly last week, with assistant Josh Hannay appointed interim coach until Craig Fitzgibbon takes over in 2022.

Under Morris Fifita had been relegated to the NSW Cup and had not played in the NRL this year.

But the coaching change has provided the Tongan international with a clean slate at Cronulla and a chance to impress Hannay in the coming weeks.

Everything Rugby League understands Wakefield remain keen to sign the prop but the ball is now firmly in Fifita’s court.

The 31-year-old is aware the English club wants him.

Fifita, who has made more than 200 career NRL appearances, is still expected to leave the Sharks at the end of 2021.

It is believed Trinity will continue to monitor the situation, while also look at other forward options in Australia in a bid to strengthen their pack.

Wakefield have yet to record a victory in Super League this year and were knocked out of the Challenge Cup by Catalans.

Currently they sit second from bottom on the ladder, only above 12th placed Leigh.

Fifita joined Cronulla from Wests Tigers in 2012 and won a grand final with the club in 2016.

He also won the World Cup with the Kangaroos in 2013 and has made 10 appearances for NSW in State of Origin.

The front-rower’s twin brother David has been part of Trinity’s squad since 2016.