Warriors sign duo as Kodi Nikorima departs for South Sydney Rabbitohs
Kodi Nikorima in action for New Zealand Warriors
New Zealand Warriors have signed two players from Sydney Roosters to fill the void left by Kodi Nikorima, who has joined South Sydney Rabbitohs.
The Warriors granted New Zealand international Nikorima a release from his contract so he could take up an opportunity with the Rabbitohs.
Nikorima has signed a new deal with Souths for the remainder of the 2022 NRL season, with a player option for 2023.
The 28-year-old has made 145 appearances in the NRL for the Warriors and Brisbane Broncos. He has played 15 tests for the Kiwis and has also represented the Maori All Stars.
Rabbitohs head of football Mark Ellison said: “Kodi has been a strong performer at NRL and international level for a number of seasons now, across many positions including all of the key spine positions.
“He will add depth to our side across many facets of the game and we feel he can bring another dimension to our attack as well as strength to our defence when he is on the field.
“His experience will also be valuable to many of the young players we have in our squad. We look forward to seeing Kodi in our cardinal and myrtle jersey this season.”
Warriors bring in duo from Sydney Roosters
The Warriors have signed half-back Ronald Volkman and hooker Freddy Lussick with immediate effect.
Volkman, 19, has signed a deal with the Warriors until the end of the 2025 season. Lussick, who is the younger brother of Joey and Darcy, has joined the Warriors for the remainder of the campaign.
Warriors general manager Craig Hodges said: “We’re thrilled to be able to add Ronald and Freddy to our squad right now.
“We were keen to have Ronald onboard for the rest of this season rather than waiting for 2023. It’s beneficial for him and for us to have him settled into the club sooner rather than later.
“And Freddy brings NRL experience out of the Roosters’ system to add more support in the dummy half ranks to Wayde Egan and Taniela Otukolo.”
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