The NRL says it is yet to decide the fate of Cronulla coach Shane Flanagan and former strength and conditioning coach Trent Elkin because the pair have asked for more time to work on their legal submissions.
Flanagan was banned for 12 months by the NRL and Elkin was suspended indefinitely in December following an investigation into the supplement program used by the Sharks in 2011.
The pair have appealed against the decisions, and it was hoped a verdict would be made before the Auckland Nines competition last week.
The new season kicks off in just two weeks' time.
Cronulla are also appealing the $1 million fine issued by NRL boss Dave Smith.
Interim Cronulla coach Peter Sharp called for a decision to be made quickly on Wednesday, so the club could plan properly for the 2014 campaign.
"The NRL has been clarifying information with the Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks Football Club, Shane Flanagan and Trent Elkin following receipt of their submissions on January 29, 2014," the statement said.
"The Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks Football Club has met this time frame.
"Following a request for further time by Mr Flanagan and Mr Elkin, their deadline has been extended until Friday, 28 February, 2014.
"The NRL is determined to resolve these matters as soon as possible while limiting the risk of legal action and further delay."
The Sharks are 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 in 2013 and led the team to the premiership, is assisting interim coach Peter Sharp.
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 due to the ASADA investigation since early 2013, he said the players were 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.
"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."
Flanagan has been told he must stay away from the team as part of his ban but Sharp said the pair had 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."
