Huddersfield Giants Soar Back into Playoff Contention: Star Player Keen to Extend Stay
The Huddersfield Giants, a team reborn after a challenging 2023 season, have firmly positioned themselves in the Super League playoff picture, sitting just two points behind the sixth-place team. This weekend, the Giants will face the Salford Red Devils, who currently occupy the sixth spot in the league table.
Huddersfield’s recent resurgence has been largely driven by the impressive performances of their star player, center Kevin Naiqama. Joining the club ahead of the 2023 season, the 35-year-old Naiqama has been a key part of the Giants’ turnaround, following a successful Super League spell with St Helens.
“Right now I do feel great. I feel mentally and physically well, and there’s nothing there suggesting to me I’m slowing down,” he revealed.
Huddersfield boss Ian Watson is keen to retain Naiqama’s services, having already discussed the player’s future aspirations. “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,” Naiqama admitted.
The Giants’ star player is also eager to win silverware with his new club before retirement. Having won three Grand Finals and a Challenge Cup with St Helens, Naiqama is determined to emulate this success with Huddersfield. “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,” he said.
As the Giants continue their push for the playoffs, Naiqama’s experience and leadership will be crucial in guiding the team to new heights. “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,” he concluded.
With Naiqama’s future still undecided, the Giants will be eager to secure his services for another season, as they look to build on their impressive turnaround and challenge for major honors in the 2024 Super League campaign.
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