'Don't see myself anywhere else': Briton Nikora signs two-year extension with Cronulla Sharks
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Cronulla Sharks back-rower Briton Nikora has inked a fresh contract with the club.
Already committed for next season, Nikora has signed on for an additional two seasons to tie him to the club until at least the end of the 2027 season.
The 26-year-old was an integral part of the Sharks' run to the prelim final, featuring in 25 first-grade matches this season including all three of Cronulla's finals matches.
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Nikora finished the year with a career-high 10 tries and averaged 38 tackles per game.
Briton Nikora of the Sharks is tackled by the Knights' defence. Brendon Thorne via Getty Images
In a club statement on Friday afternoon, Nikora expressed his gratitude to the club where he has become a mainstay on the right edge.
"This is where I started my career and this is where I eventually hope to end it. As long as the Sharks want me, I don't see myself anywhere else," he said.
"I came here for an open trial for the under 20s in late 2015 when I didn't have much going for me. The Sharks gave me an opportunity and I'm grateful for what they've done for my career. It means a lot to play for one club."
Watch the 2024 Pacific Championships on Nine and 9Now.
Sharks football manager Darren Mooney was present at that open trial almost a decade ago and said he immediately took note of Nikora's talent.
Briton Nikora scores for the Sharks against Manly in round 27. NRL Photos
"We watched about three runs from him, got him off the field and signed him the next day," Mooney said.
"It's been a privilege to see what Brit has gone on to achieve, not only in his footy but in his life as a husband to Sharmaine and a father of three boys.
"He's one of the elite back-rowers in the competition, plays for his country and has developed into a leader of our squad.
"To have him around for another couple of years is great news for the club."
Watch the 2024 Pacific Championships on Nine and 9Now.
Hailing from Mount Maunganui in New Zealand's north, Nikora relocated to the Gold Coast when he was nine years old.
Nikora made his NRL debut against Newcastle in the opening round of the 2019 season and has since gone on to play 136 first-grade games, scoring 43 tries.
A proud Māori man, Nikora has represented the Kiwis in 13 Test matches including last year's Pacific Championships win.
The explosive forward was ruled out of playing for his nation during this international window because of an ankle injury requiring surgery.
Nikora joins half Braydon Trindall, who last week recommitted to the Sharks on a new long-term contract.
The new deal caps off a whirlwind few weeks for Nikora having recently returned home from his wedding and honeymoon in Bali.
