Dolphins sign New Zealand international Kodi Nikorima on two-year deal

Josh McAllister
Dolphins Kodi Nikorima

New Zealand international Kodi Nikorima will join the Dolphins from 2023 on a two-year deal. 

He will be a part of their inaugural NRL season, making the switch from current club South Sydney Rabbitohs.

It will also mean a return to Brisbane for the utility player, having started his career at the Broncos.

Nikorima, 28, has made 151 appearances since making his debut in 2015. He has also featured for New Zealand Warriors, having joined them mid-way through the 2019 season.

The New Zealand international will also add some strong cover across a number of positions for the Dolphins squad. Nikorima can play full-back, half-back or hooker.

He will provide depth in the hooker position, competing with Jeremy Marshall-King and young gun Harrison Graham for the starting jersey.

Kodi Nikorima to reunite with Bennett

Dolphins chief executive Terry Reader said: “We are pleased to be able to provide the opportunity for Kodi Nikorima and his young family to return to Queensland.

“Kodi is yet another example of one of the reasons the Dolphins were brought into the competition. To allow local Queensland players to play NRL in the areas they were developed.

“He joins others such as Felise Kaufusi, Tom Gilbert and Edrick Lee who will be doing just that.

“We know he is a very dangerous player as a hooker who can also provide cover for other positions across the backline.

“Kodi has more than 150 NRL games to his name as well as playing Tests for New Zealand and importantly has a history of performing under our head coach Wayne Bennett.”

He has played 15 Tests for the New Zealand Kiwis and has represented the Maori All Stars team.

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