ADAM CLUNE is keen to make up for lost time as he works to spearhead a Huddersfield climb up the Super League standings.
And the Australian halfback, who is “honoured” to have been handed the claret-and-gold captaincy, says communication will be at the heart of his leadership style.
Clune, who is going into his third season since switching from Newcastle Knights, got the nod from Luke Robinson after he was put forward by his colleagues when the team chief sought their views about who should replace retiring Giants legend Leroy Cudjoe, who is now on the coaching staff.
His appointment comes less than six years since he played his first NRL match for St George Illawarra Dragons on his 25th birthday, and after an injury-hit second season at Huddersfield, during which he was limited to six appearances as the Giants finished tenth.
“To captain a first-grade club is really special for me, particularly given that I debuted later than I would have liked,” said the 30-year-old, who patiently worked his way through the St George system and was finally rewarded with a top-flight chance after a stand-out season in the New South Wales Cup in 2019.
“Last year was disappointing for me personally – this time I just want to be out there playing every match – and we also faced a lot of adversity as a club.
“But it’s a new season, it’s a great group here, and we’re all excited about what is to come.”
Clune, who played 25 times for St George in the NRL, 22 in two seasons at Newcastle and 26 in his first year at Huddersfield, has been hailed for supporting his teammates while he himself was out injured in 2025.
“I have learnt a lot of things from a lot of smart people, so to try to pass that on is good,” he explained.
“And selfishly, when you are in rehab it can be a bit isolating, so you want to be part of the group – and I love talking football!”
Clune has forward Harry Rushton as his vice-captain, but added: “It’s not just the two of us. Everyone plays their part. As a group, everyone has an opinion, and everyone will be heard.”