Cronulla Sharks star keen to turn down rival duo and pen new deal
Cronulla Sharks star Briton Nikora has revealed he wants to pen a new deal with the club and hopes it can get done sooner rather than later.
The second-rower is in demand with rival NRL clubs said to be sniffing around. Wests Tigers are thought to be in the hunt along with St George Illawarra. However if Nikora gets his way he will be staying at Shark Park.
The Sharks are a different kettle of fish under the leadership of new coach Craig Fitzgibbon. Heading in to Sunday’s game against Wests Tigers they sit 3-1 for the season so far.
Cronulla Sharks the only club for Nikora
It is an exciting place to be and Nikora wants to continue on the journey. The New Zealand-born forward has found a new home and does not want to play anywhere else.
He has been a consistent performer during his 66 NRL appearances for the Sharks. He has chipped in with 17 tries so it is no surprise to see rival interest.
The 24-year-old will fall out of contract at the end of the year but has yet to sign a new one. It is unclear what the reason for the delay is, but Nikora sounds keen to get it done.
“I’ve been here since I was 17. My partner is from here. I’ve got kids here, we live down the road, so this is my home,” Nikora told the Daily Telegraph.
“As I said, I’ve been here since the under-20s so I don’t really want to leave. I know we’re facing the Tigers this week, but I’m just focusing on my job and letting the outside noise take care of itself.
“I just need to play good, consistent footy and the contract stuff will take care of itself. I’d obviously love to stay here and hopefully we can get it done as soon as possible.”
If Nikora does sign on the dotted line it will be another blow for the Tigers. Nikora has impressed during his time with the Sharks and the Tigers have declared their interest.
Maguire misses top target
They are keen to sign another second-rower and have just missed out on Jeremiah Nanai. He has pledged his future to the Cowboys with a one-year extension. Also disappointing the Newcastle Knights.
Isaiah Papali’i is on board for 2023 but Luciano Leilua is moving on. That represents a like-for-like swap so Michael Maguire needs someone else.
The Dragons were said to be in the hunt but have now pulled out of the running. The Red V are putting all their effort in to retaining Jack Bird on a new deal.