Huddersfield have confirmed the signing of Samoan front rower James Gavet from Newcastle Knights.
The 29-year-old has signed a two-year deal from 2020, following fellow new signings Kenny Edwards and Ashton Golding to the John Smith’s Stadium.
Gavet has spent the past seven years in the NRL, after making his debut for Canterbury in 2012.
Since then he’s had spells with Wests Tigers, Brisbane Broncos and New Zealand Warriors, racking up over 70 first grade appearances.
He adds further bulk to a Giants front row that already includes fellow Polynesian enforcers Suaia Matagi, Sebastine Ikahihifo and Ukuma Ta’ai.
Huddersfield head coach, Simon Woolford, said: “We were looking to add some size and aggression to our pack, we identified a number of options and James was, we felt, the best person to fill that role.
“James had a number of options including some top Super League clubs, so we’re thankful to James and his management for making the choice to come to Huddersfield and we feel this is a major coup for the club.
“We feel it’s a very significant signing for the club moving forward in our quest to become a top five Super League team.”
Get Ready, @SuperLeague.#TheEnforcer. Coming Soon. pic.twitter.com/4FiamGkGDb
— Huddersfield Giants 🐮🔔 (@Giantsrl) October 17, 2019
On signings for the Giants, Gavet added: “I spoke to guys that I’ve played with, like Suaia Matagi and Ukuma Ta’ai, and they told me about the talent in the squad and how well the team should have done last year.
“They said that the position on the ladder didn’t represent the potential the team had and I have always rated them and their honesty. They are people I know and trust.
“I hope I can strengthen them and help them fulfil their potential. From what I’ve heard, they are heading in the right direction. I hope I can be the piece that fits perfectly to complete the puzzle.
“I’m looking forward to the rivalries. I’ve heard they are another level over there and representing your colours in front of the crowd is a big deal.
“There’s big, crazy crowds and big pommies frothing at the mouth to get a piece of you – I want to get a piece of them too.”
