Addin Fonua-Blake and Briton Nikora, two Cronulla players, are embracing the new State of Origin eligibility rules, which will allow them to compete in interstate football. Fonua-Blake, born in Sydney, and Nikora, who moved to Queensland at age nine, are now eligible to represent their respective states. The rule change opens up opportunities for players from Tier-One countries like New Zealand and England to participate in the iconic series. Fonua-Blake, a three-time Dally M Prop of the Year, previously played 16 Tests for Tonga, a Tier-Two nation, but his single Test for the Kiwis in 2017 made him ineligible for the Blues. Nikora, a proud Kiwi and Queenslander, has played 16 Tests for New Zealand and is eager to showcase his skills. Both players are excited about the prospect of playing against the best in the game, with Fonua-Blake highlighting the appeal of lining up alongside top players like Payne Haas and Nathan Cleary. The new rule change not only benefits individual players but also enhances the sport's international appeal, as seen with players like Kalyn Ponga representing their ancestral countries.
