Cronulla’s Briton Nikora is facing a two-game suspension for a late hit on Viliame Kikau from Canterbury. Meanwhile, Jarome Luai from Penrith has escaped suspension despite being reported twice in their win over Parramatta, and he will be available to play in the grand-final rematch against Brisbane next week. Nikora was sin-binned early in the Sharks’ win over the Bulldogs for the late and high contact on Kikau, who was able to continue playing.
On Saturday morning, the match review committee charged Nikora with a grade-two dangerous contact, offering him a two-match ban. If he accepts the early guilty plea, he’ll miss games against the Wests Tigers and Canberra. However, if he challenges the charge and is unsuccessful, he risks sitting out the following game against South Sydney as well.
Nikora’s absence is significant for the Sharks, especially with Wade Graham’s retirement last year, as he is considered one of the best line-running second-rowers in the league. New recruit Billy Burns may replace him on the right edge for his club debut, while Jack Williams could also be an option as a bench forward with experience starting at second row.
On the other hand, Luai has received two grade-one charges and can accept two $1,800 fines. He was first reported for a high hit on Bailey Simonsson, which resulted in the winger leaving the game due to concussion protocols. Later, Luai tripped Mitch Moses as the Eels halfback attempted a kick, earning him a second report. However, he will be available to play against the Broncos next Thursday night.
