Huddersfield Giants have confirmed they made an offer for forward Jack Hughes to remain with the club – but he has instead opted to take up a two-year deal with Warrington Wolves starting from next season.
Giants managing director Richard Thewlis confirmed that whilst they did make him an offer, they fully understand his reasoning for taking up a deal closer to home amidst plenty of travel time this season.
“Jack has consistently been in our top performers all season and it’s a clearly a blow to us that he is not staying on for the longer term,” he said.
“The reality sadly though is that the hours on the M62 have taken their toll and he wanted to be nearer his home and family. We had wished to keep him in the Claret and Gold and have an excellent relationship with him and his manager however we fully understand and respect his reasons for taking the Wolves offer.
“He has been excellent for us and I am sure will want to keep his form going and finish the season on a high here. We gave him an opportunity to play regular Super League which he grasped with both hands and his leaving now presents another opportunity within the squad for someone to do as Jack has and cement a place in our back row.”
Hughes said: “I am proud to be joining this great club. I look forward to giving my best in the seasons to come, working with Tony Smith and joining up with the squad in the off-season.”
Warrington head coach Tony Smith said: “He’s a terrific young British player and I have a lot of time for Jack. He has had a very, very good year; he’s been very strong for Huddersfield.
“He’s a big, strapping lad who has a strong desire to play for our club and I think he’s got a really healthy future. He is a potential England representative in the near future and we are hoping to help him on that route to achieve this. I think he’s going to play a really big role in our future and will give us a lot of depth in our back row as well as his versatility to play in the backs as well really exciting young player.”
