Players have Nikau's support to
boycott

The players have the support of Dally M special guest Tawera Nikau over their threat to boycott the rugby league's most prestigious awards ceremony, according to players' association boss Tony Butterfield.

Butterfield says he's contacted Nikau in New Zealand to make sure he isn't offended by the players' threat to stay away from Tuesday night's ceremony in Sydney. Nikau recently lost his lower leg following a motorcycle accident.

The former Kiwi international is the NRL's special guest and is scheduled to present the player of the year award at the function.