Interim coach Peter Sharp has urged the NRL to make a decision on Cronulla’s appeal against Shane Flanagan’s 12-month ban as the new season looms in two weeks.

Head coach Flanagan was suspended by the NRL for 12 months, and the club fined $1 million as part of a probe into governance issues surrounding its supplements program run by former strength and conditioning coach Trent Elkin in 2011.

The Sharks lodged an appeal against NRL boss Dave Smith’s decision last month and were hoping to find out if they’d been successful before the Auckland Nines last weekend.

They have yet to appoint a NSW Cup coach in case Flanagan is cleared to return to guide the NRL team.

Tony Herman who filled the NSW Cup role last year, leading the team to the premiership, is now assisting Sharp with the NRL team.

Sharp admits there is a feeling of limbo around the club as they prepare for their season-opener at home against the Gold Coast on March 10.

However, given the uncertainty that’s lingered over the Sharks due to the continuing ASADA investigation since early last year, he said the players are used to dealing with the uncertainty.

“It is what it is and we just need to get on with it and the players know that too,” Sharp told AAP on Wednesday.

“The appeal is pending and to a man we all wish Flanno the best but it would be good for all of us to know where we stand.

“I am hoping Shane comes back, but we need to prepare for the competition as best as we can.”

Former Manly and Northern Eagles mentor Sharp’s last head coaching role was with Hull, who he left in 2008, and he admits he’s not chased a top job and would be more than happy to return to being Flanagan’s No.2.

“It’s not something I have actively sought. The circumstances are exceptional and we all need to pitch in at this club until Shane comes back,” he said.

Flanagan has been told he must stay away from the team as part of his ban but Sharp said the pair have been in constant contact.

“Shane and I are good mates and we talk. But he doesn’t tell me how to coach,” he said.

“That is full credit to him. When we talk, we talk about footy, we talk about other teams, we talk about our team, injuries and that sort of stuff, but he hasn’t told me what to do.”