Sharks backrower Briton Nikora has been named in the 20-man Queensland squad to contest game one of the 2026 State of Origin series.
Regarded as one of the best line-running forwards in the NRL competition and a 15-tme New Zealand international and five-time Māori All Star, Nikora’s selection has come after origin eligibility rules were altered earlier this year.
The updated rules allow players who represent Tier One nations — and who meet the traditional State of Origin criteria — to now be eligible for selection.
Nikora lived and began his rugby league journey on the Gold Coast before the age of 13.
He has since played 168 NRL games for the Sharks, with his game one appearance for Queensland set to be his Origin debut.
Nikora will join the Queensland squad in camp later today.
The Queensland team, coached by Billy Slater and to be captained by Cameron Munster, is listed below.
Queensland Maroons Game I squad:
Kalyn Ponga (Newcastle Knights)
Selwyn Cobbo (Dolphins)
Robert Toia (Sydney Roosters)
Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow (Dolphins)
Jojo Fifita (Gold Coast Titans)
Cameron Munster (Melbourne Storm)
Sam Walker (Sydney Roosters)
Thomas Flegler (Dolphins)
Harry Grant (Melbourne Storm)
Tino Fa'asuamaleaui (Gold Coast Titans)
Reuben Cotter (North Queensland Cowboys)
Kurt Capewell (Warriors)
Max Plath (Dolphins)
Briton Nikora (Cronulla Sutherland Sharks)
Lindsay Collins (Sydney Roosters)
Patrick Carrigan (Brisbane Broncos)
Trent Loiero (Melbourne Storm)
Ezra Mam (Brisbane Broncos)
Gehamat Shibasaki (Brisbane Broncos)
Kulikefu Finefeuiaki (Dolphins)
