Huddersfield Giants forward Sebastine Ikahihifo locks in club for 2023 and beyond

It’s been a big week for Huddersfield.

As they look to build on their 3rd place finish in 2022 and make it at least one step closer to Old Trafford in 2023, the Giants earlier this week announced the signing of Jake Bibby.

He, alongside Esan Marsters and Kevin Naiqama, demonstrates the exciting recruitment undergoing at the John Smith’s Stadium as Ian Watson’s project goes from strength to strength.

The Giants have also worked hard to retain their key players giving a three year deal to Joe Greenwood recently. Now Huddersfield have confirmed another smart bit of retention with another forward in the shape of Sebastine Ikahihifo.

The prop has often excelled under Watson playing in the 2020 Challenge Cup Final under him against Leeds in a two-year loan away from Huddersfield.

In 2022 he returned to the Giants and when fit, he was back to his best causing problems with rampaging runs.

He too has been awarded a new deal which will last till 2025.

On this piece of retention, Watson said: “It is brilliant that Seb’s staying with us for another 2 years, he’s an excellent individual to have the team, his tough and explosive style suits us perfectly. He leads by example and gets on with his job, which is a great attribute to have and is a great asset in the squad.”

“His carries, his efforts on and off the ball and explosive running style are perfect for the kind of side we have, and at his best, he can be one of the best front-rowers in the competition. We’re delighted to keep him at Huddersfield Giants”

Meanwhile, Sebastine Ikahihifo added: “I’m delighted to be renewing my contract with Huddersfield Giants, we have achieved a lot in 2022 but the expectation from this group is to deliver consistently and be reaching finals and winning trophies consistently and I’d like to help make that happen.

“We have an excellent team and an excellent coaching staff, so all things are looking up for us to continue to move in the right direction.”

Ikahihifo has been at the club since 2016 despite his two year loan to the AJ Bell. Now set to stay till 2025 with this three year deal, he is set to leave quite a legacy.