There are plenty of players we are looking forward to welcoming in the Super League in 2016, and Sam Rapira is one of them. The forward is one of several players who will add strength and size to the Huddersfield Giants’ pack next season, and we can’t wait to see him play.
Here are five facts about Rapira.
1. He has been a one-club man.
Rapira’s move to Super League will bring an end to his nine-year stay at the New Zealand Warriors, the only club he has ever played for. He has played over 170 times for the Warriors so far.
2. Rugby League runs in the family
Sam is the older brother to Steve, who briefly played for Salford last year before moving back to Australia with the Mackay Cutters. The two played together at the Warriors between 2011 and 2013.
3. He has 13 international tests under his belt
Rapira was a formidable presence in the New Zealand pack between 2007 and 2011, making 13 senior appearances. His debut was against Australia in the 2007 ANZAC Test, which Australia won 30-6.
4. He’s a World Cup Winner
He might have endured a difficult international debut, but he made up for it just a year later as the Kiwi’s won the 2008 World Cup, defeating Australia 34-20 in the final. Rapira played from the bench in that match.
5. He contemplated retirement
Just a few weeks ago Rapira spoke to League Express and said he had considered retiring. That was of course until the Giants stepped in, and now he can’t wait to wear the claret and gold and play in Super League.
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