UPDATE: K L Iro, the dynamic player for the Cronulla Sharks, is set to take the field in a crucial NRL preliminary final against the Melbourne Storm on Friday, July 14, 2023. Iro, 25, will start at left centre, bringing his explosive speed and power to a match that could secure the Sharks a spot in this year’s grand final.
Growing up in the Cook Islands, Iro faced towering opponents from a young age, shaping his fearless playing style. Nicknamed “Poto,” the Maori word for small, he was often the underdog, yet he embraced the challenge. “I wanted to take on the big fellas,” he recalled, reflecting on his childhood battles against older opponents. “When I did that it felt good and everyone would cheer because I was the midget.”
Now standing at 186 cm and weighing 97 kg, Iro has transitioned from a slight youth to a formidable force on the field. Since his debut in 2022, he has scored 17 tries in 37 games, proving to be a lethal asset for the Sharks.
As the Sharks prepare for their showdown with the Storm, Iro emphasized the team’s defensive prowess. Over their last ten games, they have lost only once, allowing an average of just 14 points per match. “We’re working hard for each other,” he stated. “We found our confidence and we’ve been playing with it.”
The Sharks, known for their gritty performance at Shark Park, are ready to tackle a star-studded Storm lineup. With Iro’s speed and the team’s renewed defensive edge, fans are eager to see if they can down their formidable rivals.
The match kicks off at 7:50 PM AEST, and both teams are poised for an intense battle. This is a must-watch for rugby league fans, as the outcome will determine who advances to the grand final.
Stay tuned for live updates and analysis as the Sharks aim to make history in this high-stakes clash!
