Huddersfield Giants boss explains key man’s absence vs Leigh Leopards

Huddersfield Giants boss Luke Robinson has moved to explain the reason behind Jacob Gagai’s absence on Thursday night. The Giants lost 28-24 against Leigh Leopards with a late fightback seeing them push Adrian Lam’s high flyers all the way to the final few seconds of the contest.

They played the game without Gagai, though, with Sam Halsall selected to feature on the wing instead of the Australian. Gagai has had a key role to play for the Giants so far this year, with four tries coming in 11 Super League appearances.

As such, his absence was noted on Thursday night and speaking after the game, Robinson confirmed that Gagai had been given compassionate leave to head home to Australia and be with his family for a period of time.

Key Huddersfield Giants absence explained

“He’s at home in Australia,” Robinson revealed in his post-match press conference. “He’s very close to his family and his grandma in particular. He got a phone call saying that she’s not in a very good way.

“Everyone knows what type of club we are, we’re a family club owned by Ken Davy, who is family first and a top bloke. We have that moral compass throughout the club as well. Andy Kelly booked him on a flight about two hours later and he was on a flight back to Australia to spend some valuable time with her.”

When Gagai will return to the John Smith’s Stadium is unknown at this point.

The 29-year-old joined the Giants over the off-season after being released by South Sydney Rabbitohs and started the season at full-back. He has since moved to the wing position, though and seems to have found his feet in the role.

During his time in West Yorkshire, he has scored two tries against Hull FC, while efforts have come against Catalans Dragons and Castleford Tigers, too.