Cronulla’s NRL finals chances have taken an incredible blow with fears star half Shaun Johnson has snapped his Achilles tendon against the Sydney Roosters on Saturday.

The 30-year-old went down untouched clutching his lower right leg in the 48th minute at the SCG and was soon after carted from the field in a medi-cab.

No doubt in excruciating pain, Johnson kindly gave the thumbs up to the crowd from the back of the medicab before reports emerged of the season-ending injury.

With just one game left before finals, losing Johnson – who leads the NRL with 22 try-assists this season – is a disaster for the Sharks who will not have a second chance in week one.

He added another to his tally against the Roosters on Saturday night, but the Sharks trailed 24-12 when he was taken from the field.

The finals-bound side are already missing Matt Moylan, Wade Graham and Chad Townsend – the latter two through suspension.

Graham is set to return against Canberra next weekend.