Huddersfield Giants are a team re-born, after a difficult 2023 season. The Giants are firmly in the playoff picture, sitting just two points behind sixth place.
Huddersfield face the Salford Red Devils this weekend, who currently occupy 6th place in the Super League table. The Giants come into the game off the back of a last-minute defeat against St Helens.
Now, the Giants have received a major update on the future of one of their star players.
Huddersfield Giants star admits “I feel great”
Credit: Imago Images
Centre, Kevin Naiqama, has been a key part of the Giants upturn in form this season. He joined the club ahead of the 2023 season, after a successful Super League spell with St Helens.
Naiqama is now 35 years old, and approaching the end of a glittering career. Speaking to The Mirror, he has admitted he believes he still has plenty to offer. However, he remains undecided about whether he will play on in 2025.
“I have had a meeting with Watto [Huddersfield boss, Ian Watson] and he has asked about my aspirations beyond this year, whether I am keen to play again.”
Naiqama revealed that Watson is keen for him to play on for another year with the Giants. Watson believes Naiqama still have the physical attributes contribute to the side.
“We have talked about it and he expressed his interest. He just wanted to know where I was at if I did want to go around again, as he does feel I’ve still got another year left in me. I’m not sure yet.
“Right now I do feel great. I feel mentally and physically well and there’s nothing there suggesting to me I’m slowing down.”
Naiqama keen to win silverware with Giants
Naiqama has lifted silverware in the UK. He won three Grand Finals and a Challenge Cup with St Helens. Naiqama is now keen to emulate this success with Huddersfield before retiring.
“It’s been a while since Huddersfield have won some silverware and that’s one of the main reasons I came back to a different club – winning something with a new club.
“On the outside looking in, Huddersfield aren’t a side you think of as someone making finals. And that challenge for me is exciting.
“Last year was very disappointing, especially with the squad we had and it was almost like we had to go through that year with the turnover of players we had to start playing the footy we are now.”
Naiqama believes the squad is beginning to get at the right time. He is beginning to feel excited by what they can achieve this season.
“In the last month and a bit we’ve really started to hit our straps and the combinations are starting to form really well. The team’s gelling and we’re excited by what’s ahead but we know we’re not getting carried away.”
