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Raiders fullback Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad has proved a revelation in Canberra after making the most of a NRL lifeline handed to him by coach Ricky Stuart.
Canberra coach Ricky Stuart has always had an eye for talent, but the unearthing of star fullback Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad is impressive even by his standards.
Nicoll-Klokstad spent two years at the Warriors but played just seven NRL games, stuck behind New Zealand international Roger Tuivasa-Sheck.
Stuart signed Nicoll-Klokstad for the 2019 season after moving Jack Wighton into the halves and the Kiwi livewire has made the most of his opportunity in Canberra.
The 23-year-old leads the NRL in kick return metres (886m), sits second in run metres (2343m) and fourth in tackle busts (60).
Dally M votes are published until round 12, and Nicoll-Klokstad was equal eighth on the leaderboard at the halfway point of the season.
Nicoll-Klokstad admitted his family are keeping a keen eye on his personal stats but said he was concerned with racking up wins.
"I've got my partner in my ear and my family are obviously quite proud," Nicoll-Klokstad said.
"One off the top of my head is tackle breaks but I can't remember how high up I am.
"It's been different (playing in the NRL each every week). It's been a lot more expectations with the cameras and the crowd.
"NRL is every kid's dream, and for me to be able to do it week in, week out, I've been very blessed in a way. I'm really enjoying it."
Nicoll-Klokstad praised Stuart for handing him a career lifeline and wants to repay the faith by continuing his breakout season.
"It's a bit of a different game the NRL. You have to be on the ball every single game and have that confidence in yourself to go out and do a job," Nicoll-Klokstad said.
"I'm really stoked that Ricky has stuck by me through some of the games I've had this year. He's always given me a bit of guidance and wanting me to improve and hopefully I can keep doing that and build off what's already been laid."
Canberra face Parramatta in Darwin on Saturday.
