Grand Final forward joins the Dolphins

The Dolphins have added experience and work ethic to their roster with the acquisition of middle forward Mark Nicholls for their 2023 entry to the NRL.

Nicholls has agreed to a two-year agreement that will see the big prop join Queensland’s newest sporting franchise when pre-season training begins in November.

Nicholls was one of the unsung heroes of the South Sydney Rabbitohs’ passage to the Grand Final in 2021, playing in 27 games and even captaining the famous club in their run to the NRL decider.

He will link with his former coach at the Rabbitohs, Wayne Bennett, who will lead the Dolphins into their first NRL campaign.

Dolphins’ CEO Terry Reader said Nicholls would add some quality to the franchise’s inaugural squad.

“Mark is a hard-working, no-nonsense type of forward that will fit straight into the Dolphins squad,” said Reader.

“He has had some real big-match experience with the Rabbitohs in the last few years, including playing in three straight preliminary finals as well as the most recent NRL Grand Final.

“We see him as someone who will not only add depth and experience to our squad, but a presence who will set an example for younger players on the value of hard work and persistence in the NRL.”

Indicative to his position as a front rower, Nicholls’ career has expanded as he has moved through the ranks.

From Leeton in southern NSW, the former Junior Kangaroo began his NRL career with the Canberra Raiders.

Nicholls played nine matches for the Storm in 2017, the year they defeated the North Queensland Cowboys in the NRL Grand Final.

In 2018 he played his first NRL game for the Rabbitohs, building consistent contributions and field time over the next four seasons, including featuring in three straight preliminary finals.

He played his 100th NRL match last year before starting in the 2021 NRL Grand Final loss to the Panthers.