Nikorima in mates' race for Dolphins No.6 jersey

That quest has the 29-year-old on a collision course with his close friend Anthony Milford and youngster Isaiya Katoa, who both have claims to be first-choice five-eighth in 2024.

A case could be mounted that Nikorima was the Dolphins' most valuable player in 2023, when he played in the halves, at hooker, fullback and even filled in at centre.

He did a sterling job wherever he lined up, leading to talks with the club to extend his current deal beyond 2024.

Nikorima's best football has been played in the halves, with his 2018 season at the Brisbane Broncos - where he teamed up with Milford - standing out.

"There is a lot of competition and depth in our halves, which can only be good for our team, but five-eighth is the goal for me," Nikorima said.

"That's where I want to play. I have the utility tag next to my name but I will be going into next season wanting that six jersey."

Sean O'Sullivan is favoured to retain the halfback position in 2024 and Nikorima has left coach Wayne Bennett in no doubt he wants to partner the former Warriors and Penrith man.

"I will be competing with Milf, who is one of my good mates, and Izzy (Katoa) ... which is only going to make me better, and hopefully them better too," Nikorima said.

"It is going to give the coaching staff a selection headache."

Nikorima started at No.6 in 11 of his 21 games in 2023, and based on the flair and control he showed has put himself in a strong position to get his wish next season.

But the New Zealand international was quick to shoot down claims he had "earned" the right to line up at five-eighth.

"You can't rest on what you've done. Every year some players get better. Some go backwards," he said.

"I want to continue to grow and I have areas in my game I want to improve.

"If I do, then I will be a much better player, or even a complete player."

The Dolphins are in many respects a local club for the New Zealand-born Nikorima, who moved to Queensland as a 12-year-old, and he is keen to extend his stay.

"We are talking about it now. Hopefully I can be here long term," he said.

"I grew up not too far from here at Bracken Ridge, and I like what this club is about and how they are shaping up for the future."

Australian Associated Press