Kayal Iro, a centre for Cronulla, is a contender for Dally M rookie of the year after taking advice from his illustrious father, Kevin Iro.
Kayal’s incredible NRL performance in 17 games this season is a major factor in the Sharks’ fourth-place finish and potential challenge for the 2024 championship.
The 24-year-old has amassed 73 tackle busts, eight line breaks, and seven assists on line breaks while averaging 164 meters per game. Coach Craig Fitzgibbon was impressed by his defence, which included 23 tackles in Friday night’s 44-0 victory over Gold Coast.
During his playing career, Kevin Iro, a legendary figure from New Zealand, was among the top outside backs globally. Kayal treasures his advice.
“He messages me before the game and says, ‘make sure you take your opportunities’,” Kayal told the Associated Press.
“By anticipating line breaks from an attacking perspective, he means to play a strong defence and make all those cover tackles. Dad is a modest man who always gives straightforward advice.
He enjoys discussing off-ball activities and how hard work can put oneself in the picture.
“When I was little, my dad was really important to me. He would take me to the gym early in the morning and instilled in me the value of hard work and fitness even at a young age.
“That has given me the determination to get where I am today.”
Fitzgibbon is thrilled with Iro’s progress.
Kayal is very industrious. Fitzgibbon stated, “He is not taking his position for granted and wants to improve.”
We asked him to improve on a few areas of his game, and he has simply tuned into it. There is still more upside for him.
“I thought (marking Titans fullback) Keano Kini was excellent. With his lightning-fast footwork and dexterity, he effectively shut him down.”
Iro is nourished by the grit, strength, and skill found in Shark DNA. They are still winning with the same formula that brought them to the 2016 grand final.
“That is something we mould our game off – grit, toughness and selflessness,” he stated.
“If we play like we did (against the Titans) and stick with it I think we can go a long way this year.”
Leave a Reply