Barba signed a one-year deal with the Sharks on Wednesday which is yet to be registered by the NRL.

The fullback copped a 12-match suspension after testing positive to cocaine following the Sharks’ maiden premiership win and was subsequently released by the club.

Rules stipulate a player cannot train or have anything to do with the club during a ban, but Cronulla coach Shane Flanagan believes being around the club will help with his rehabilitation.

"Ben, he's been through - and he's still going through - a rehabilitation program. He's got a lot of work to do," Flanagan told Sky Sports Radio on Thursday.

"But part of that program is getting back and doing some training with us, if possible.

"He's not going to play for at least half the season. We're not too worried about that.

"But we'd like to think integration back into training and getting a bit of schedule will help Benny, so that's the plan."