St Helens could provide a debut to their newest recruit this week, and big things are expected from him.
During the week’s break due to the Challenge Cup Final, the Saints announced the signing of Daniel Suluka-Fifita from NRL side Canterbury Bulldogs.
The 26-year-old has also represented Sydney Roosters and South Sydney Rabbitohs in the Australian competition, totalling 46 top flight games so far.
Afterarriving in the UK, just days before the would-be defeat to Leeds Rhinos, Suluka-Fifita is preparing for his first outing in the Red Vee, and it could come on Thursday evening.
Whilst we won’t know for sure if he has a chance until the 21-man squads are revealed later today, the enforcer could be set for a home debut against Warrington Wolves, in what is a crucial clash at the top of the table.
After defeat to the Rhinos, Saints now sit two points behind them and Warrington, who secured a very scrappy win over Hull FC last time out.
Speaking ahead of that game, Suluka-Fifita revealed to SaintsTV how his first few days have been at the club, and how everyone has made him feel very settled. He said: “I’m stoked [to be here]…
“I’ve met all the boys. I’m truly grateful. They were very welcoming, and I met the coaching staff and they’re all lovely people, and I’m happy to be a part of such a great club.
“”I want to get on the field as soon as possible really, so I was pretty happy to get everything done in the first day and yeah, I just want to start training now and hopefully work towards my first game.”
Commenting on what would be a home debut in one of the biggest games of the league season, the 26-year-old said: “It’s amazing.
“I’ve heard great things about the crowd, the supporters, they are very passionate and that’s something I want to experience and I’m proud of.
“Hopefully, I can debut against Warrington. That’ll be a great local derby and a big game for the locals. I’m excited.
“When I do get the chance [to debut], hopefully I can do everyone proud.”
St Helens boss comments on new signing Daniel Suluka-Fifita
Rowley also shared his thoughts on the new man, and why they opted to bring him in.
The obvious answer to that is to replace Matty Lees, who is currently out for the season with a knee injury and is confirmed to leave the club at the end of the 2027 season.
He’s a big body so he obviously replaces Matty in that respect,” Rowley said to the press prior to the game against Leeds. “”But, he also comes as his own person and a new addition, a fresh face and a fresh character to the group, which is always good.
“He’s a big body with leg speed and plenty of ability. We won’t put too much pressure on him just yet but we’ll look forward to welcoming him to the team and help him find his way and his place in the St Helens team.”
Brad Arthur commits to Leeds Rhinos, Hull KR lose back-to-back and Captain’s Challenge rule debated – Click here to listen to this week’s episode of the Serious About Rugby League Show
