Cronulla’s weekend has taken a significant downturn with key player Briton Nikora likely sidelined until the NRL finals. The back-rower faced dismissal during a surprise 22-14 defeat against the Dragons for a high tackle on Corey Allan.
Nikora charged in and struck Allan, who subsequently left the field for a head injury assessment. Referee Ashley Klein promptly penalised the tackle and instructed the Bunker to review Nikora’s actions more closely. Following this, Klein sent Nikora off the field, prompting wild cheers from the home crowd at Kogarah Oval as the Dragons neared victory.
The match review committee has charged Nikora with a grade two careless high tackle, which carries a three-match suspension if he accepts the early guilty plea. Should Cronulla decide to contest the charge and fail, Nikora’s ban could extend to four games.
This setback is particularly detrimental for the Sharks as they strive to maintain their position in the finals. With a round 25 bye on the horizon, Nikora will not return to the field until potentially the post-season, contingent on his team’s ability to qualify.