New Zealand international Briton Nikora will remain in Sharks colours until at least the end of 2027 after extending his contract for a further two seasons.
The barnstorming back-rower, who was already signed next year, has played 136 NRL matches for Cronulla since breaking into first grade in 2019.
"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," Nikora 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."
The new deal caps off a whirlwind few weeks for the 26-year-old, who put pen to paper on Friday after returning from his wedding and honeymoon in Bali.
Sharks General Manager Football Darren Mooney first saw Nikora's talent at that open trial almost a decade ago and quickly realised he was special.
"We watched about three runs from him, got him off the field and signed him the next day," Mooney reflected.
"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."
Nikora was an integral part of the Sharks' march to the preliminary final in 2024, again proving to be a dominant force on the right edge with his world-class hole running – netting him a career-high 10 tries – and bruising defence.
Hailing from Mount Maunganui in New Zealand, Nikora moved to the Gold Coast aged nine and played his junior footy for the Parkwood Sharks.
He burst onto the scene for Cronulla in 2016 through the National Youth Competition. After being named in the 2017 NYC Team of the Year, the explosive forward stepped up to the NSW Cup with the Newtown Jets in 2018.
Earning his NRL debut at the start of the following season, Nikora has been a formidable presence for the Sharks over the past six years.
A proud Māori man, Nikora has represented New Zealand in 13 Tests including last year's Pacific Championships triumph. He was ruled out of playing for his nation at the end of the recent NRL season due to an ankle injury requiring surgery.
Nikora joins Braydon Trindall in recommitting to the Sharks after the playmaker last week inked a three-year extension to remain at the club until 2028.
