Daniel Atkinson

Daniel Atkinson (born 15 January 2001) is an Italy international rugby league footballer who plays as a or  for the Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks in the National Rugby League (NRL).

He previously played for the Melbourne Storm in the NRL.

Early life
Atkinson was born in Brisbane, Queensland and was educated at St Joseph's College, Nudgee. Atkinson is of Italian descent.

He played junior rugby league for the Albany Creek Crushers, before signing with Norths Devils in the Queensland Cup Colts competition in 2019.

Early career
Ahead of the 2020 season, Atkinson was signed by the Melbourne Storm to a development contract and allocated to play for the Brisbane Tigers, making his Tigers' debut in the opening game of the 2021 Queensland Cup season.

Atkinson also played a number of games for the Victorian Thunderbolts in the Jersey Flegg Cup.

Melbourne Storm
In round 25 of the 2021 NRL season, Atkinson made his debut off the bench for Melbourne against Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks where they won 28–16. He had his Melbourne jersey (cap number 216) presented to him by Melbourne Storm teammate Dale Finucane and Football Manager Frank Ponissi.

At the end of the 2021 NRL season, Atkinson was released by Melbourne. In November 2021 he signed to play with the Sunshine Coast Falcons in the Queensland Cup. He would play the entire 2022 season with the Falcons.

Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks
Atkinson signed a contract to join the Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks squad for the 2023 NRL season, later extending for two further years. Atkinson’s first NRL appearance for Cronulla, and his first top-grade appearance in two years, came as he served as an injury replacement player during the final 3 minutes of the Sharks’ round 15 fixture.

In round 10 of the 2024 NRL season, Atkinson led his team to a 25-18 point win over rivals and former club, Melbourne Storm, without star halves partner Nicho Hynes. He kicked a field goal in the 74th minute to extend their lead and seal the win for Cronulla ending a six-year losing streak in Melbourne.

International career
Atkinson made his international rugby league debut for Italy at the 2021 Rugby League World Cup on 16 October 2022, playing in Italy's 28–4 win over Scotland.