Overseas signing Jacob Gagai has predicted better things for Huddersfield Giants with the utility back also providing the answer to what position he will play in 2025.
The 29-year-old Australian’s career so far has been overshadowed by the exploits of his brother Dane Gagai, a winger with Newcastle Knights, Queensland and Australia.
But, after just one season in the NRL, Huddersfield Giants have turned to the younger sibling as a player who can help revive their flagging fortunes and he is determined to repay their faith.
Though Giants finished a disappointing ninth in Betfred Super League this year, Gagai told Serious About Rugby League: “I think we’ve recruited well.
“Watching the other boys, who I’ve only just met, I see some good quality and good attributes out on the pitch at training. I think we are going to do very well next season.”
That said, Gagai won’t really know what to expect until the opening game, against Warrington Wolves, in February and is under no illusions about how tough Super League will be next year.
“I know a little bit about it,” he said. “I’ve watched some replays and there’s some quality football played, for sure. I am definitely ready for the challenge.
“Obviously I’ve seen what Wigan have done; there’s some solid teams and it isn’t going to be a walk in the park, for sure. It is going to be a good contest, but I am looking forward to the challenge.”
Huddersfield Giants signing Jacob Gagai reveals his best position
Jacob Gagai opened his account in Las Vegas, he’ll be looking to continue his good form in the Claret and Gold 👊#Since1895 pic.twitter.com/MhQcl8ADtP
— Huddersfield Giants 🐮🔔 (@Giantsrl) November 27, 2024
Gagai, 29, scored 31 tries in 85 games for Newcastle Knights and South Sydney in the New South Wales Cup and crossed nine times during 17 Rabbitohs appearances last term, including on his debut against Manly in Las Vegas in March.
Souths decided not to retain him for this year and explaining how he ended up in West Yorkshire, revealed: “It all sort of just happened.
“I am a pretty cruisy guy, just going with the motions and the opportunity just presented itself. I thought ‘Why not?’
“It was good to get some game time last year, but obviously disappointing with the way it went for Souths.
“I am looking forward to next year now. I’ve put all that behind me, I have gained that experience playing in the NRL and I want to bring what I learned into Super League.”
Gagai has been billed as a utility back but is clear on the role he wants to play next season. He said: “I enjoy playing full-back, I like to just roam around the field where I can.
“I feel that attacking style is one of my strengths, but I do play anywhere as a back-up. I have played one through six, but I do like the one.”
At the moment, Gagai’s priority is adjusting to the different lifestyle and conditions in England.
“I’ve only recently got here so I am still trying to get used to the cold, but it has been good so far,” he reflected.
“I went from 30-40 degree weather back home and heatwaves to freezing cold, so there’s a bit to get used to, but I am enjoying it.
“It is awesome here, the boys have been good and all the staff and the training facilities are cool.
“The stadium where we’re going to be playing our home games is pretty buzzy too, so I can’t wait to get out there.”
Having a familiar face in the camp is helping Gagai settle in. He played alongside Giants’ newly-signed England prop Tom Burgess at Souths last year and admitted: “It’s definitely a good thing.
“He has been really good with my transition from Australia. Spending the past two seasons with him, he has been very good and really helpful for me and my partner. He is a good lad to have around.”
