CRONULLA prop Hutch Maiava has been suspended indefinitely by the Sharks after decking a teammate at training yesterday.
Sharks lower-grade prop Jacob Selmes reportedly received 17 stitches to his face after he and Maiava became involved in a punch-up in the Cronulla gym.
It is understood the pair were playfighting during a weights session when Maiava threw a stronger punch, and only realised the damage he had done when he went to apologise to the bleeding Selmes.
Maiava, regarded by Sharks teammates as a gentle guy off the field, was immediately remorseful for his actions but was told to not attend training today.
Sharks coach Stuart Raper was last night deciding on a suitable penalty for Maiava, with club chief executive Steve Rogers currently on leave.
"There was a flare up of some sort and the club will deal with it appropriately," said Sharks football manager Greg Pierce.
"But it's not the first time over the years that teammates have got heated at training, at our club and every other club.
"There have been a few of these sorts of things.
"I'm sure Stuart will have it sorted out by [today]."
Selmes is a former captain of the Cronulla Jersey Flegg side, and the club believe he will be a future first grade front-rower alongside Maiava.
Though the incident could - at worst - cost Maiava his contract at the club, it is highly unlikely the big Kiwi will face the sack given the Sharks are already struggling for props following Jason Stevens' and Danny Nutley's departures.
On top of this Maiava is well regarded by the Sharks hierarchy after joining the club from Canterbury last season.
The 29-year-old impressed Cronulla officials when, after verbally agreeing to join the club, he turned down a late Bulldogs push to keep him with more money.
Dreadlocked Maiava quickly became a cult hero for Sharks fans.
