Cronulla Sharks and Kiwis second-rower Briton Nikora has declared his interest in playing for Queensland after the State of Origin eligibility rules were changed.
The new rules mean anyone who meets the existing criteria, of being born in New South Wales or Queensland, having resided in either state beforetheir 13th birthday or if their father played Origin, can play in the matches no matter what country they represent.
Nikora was brought up in Tauranga, but moved to the Gold Coast with his parents when he was 9 years old, making him available for selection for Queensland.
“I did all my schooling and all my mates are still up there,” Nikora said.
“Obviously my whole family moved over there, sort of gave us the opportunity as well and all that stuff that comes with it moving over from New Zealand.
“It’s, yeah, always grateful for Aussie and the state and that, and yeah, I’m obviously a Queenslander.”
Briton Nikora qualifies to play for Queensland under the revamped State of Origin eligibility rules. Photo / NRL
Nikora was selected for the Kiwis after he had played 12 games in the NRL and said it was an easy decision for him to choose New Zealand over the Maroons at the time.
“I’m obviously a Māori, proud Māori and from New Zealand, and all my family’s there and my sister and all my cousins and that all still live there.”
Nikora’s selection would be a huge boost for Queensland coach Billy Slater.
The lack of genuine edge forwards has been of concern for the Maroons and had seen middle forwards like North Queensland Cowboys lock Reuben Cotter forced to play out of position in recent years.
Speaking ahead of the Sharks’ second pre-season fixture, Nikora said he wasn’t going to let the chance to play for Queensland impact his play for Cronulla.
“I’m just obviously taking one step at a time, trying to be the best version for Cronulla, trying to put my best foot forward for this team, trying to earn, earn the jersey every week.”
When asked about Kalyn Ponga’s potential switch from Australia to the Kiwis, Nikora felt similar decisions could help boost the international game.
“Obviously he hasn’t been playing for Aussie and because it’s quite hard to get into there, but yeah, now he gets to play for our country, so it’ll be good for the World Cup.”
