FORMER Huddersfield Giants forward Ukuma Ta’au has landed a player-coach role at Newcastle Thunder ahead of the 2026 Championship season.

Ta’ai, 38, made almost 200 appearances for the Giants during an eight-year stay at the Accu Stadium before moving on to pastures new at Newcastle.

There, the rampaging forward made a further 34 appearances, earning a move to York ahead of the 2023 season.

Another 58 appearances later, and Ta’ai has returned to Thunder in a player-coach role.

Newcastle head coach `Graham Steadman believes Ta’ai can bring ‘invaluable’ assets to the north east club.

Steadman said” “His knowledge of the game, professionalism and standards will be invaluable both on and off the field, as he takes on a dual role that will see him contribute as a senior player while also helping to develop and mentor the Thunder squad.”