Widnes Vikings have announced that centre Krisnan Inu, has committed his future to the Vikings for the 2019 season.
Inu, 31, who arrived at the Vikings following spells with Paramatta Eels, New Zealand Warriors and Canterbury Bulldogs in the NRL, and Catalans Dragons in the Super League, has enjoyed an illustrious Rugby League career, joining the Vikings at the start of the 2018 season after three seasons with the Dragons.
He became an instant hit with supporters following a blistering start to his Vikings career with six tries in his first seven games, which culminated in a nomination for Super League Player of the Month.
A broken leg suffered away at Warrington Wolves on Good Friday disrupted his debut season at the Halton Stadium, but he recovered superbly to post ten tries and 35 goals in 19 appearances for 110 points by the end of the season.
He will play a key role as the Vikings aim for promotion at the first attempt from the Championship.
“It’s good to sign and be able to get back in around the place, and be with the boys again,” said Inu.
“I’ve been doing my own training as well, so I’m looking forward to getting back in.
“I’m motivated to be part of this group that can get us back up. We need a good base to work from and that comes from how we start the season. Therefore, I can’t wait to see what KP (Kieron Purtill) has got planned for us and how he wants to go about getting us back up.
“I’ll also be doing my part and helping out where I can. It was always my intention to firstly sign here, and then put my hand up and choose to be a leader within the group. I want to open up and share my experiences with the younger boys in any way I can.
“The members we have here are very passionate, and I’ve got a great relationship with them. I’m just sorry I couldn’t reply to them all whilst we got things sorted out. I hope they get behind us again next year!
“Now everything is done, it is the time for me to get back in with the boys, get the body right, and see what next year has to bring.”
Phil Finney, the Performance Director at Widnes Vikings, believes that Inu will play a key part as the Vikings attempt to return to Super League.
“Re-signing Krisnan underlines our desire to return to Super League,” said Finney.
“His ability and experience will be significantly important for us next season.
“He is an exciting player to watch and is someone who the fans can really look forward to seeing in our colours next year.
“He is a physical, strike player who can play in a number of positions and will be a threat next season. His presence in the squad will be a boost for the rest of the players, particularly with our younger players who can learn from him.”
James Rule, the departing Chief Executive at Widnes Vikings, said: “I wanted to take the opportunity to thank VIQI for the contribution that they have made towards securing Krisnan Inu for the 2019 campaign. We had some funding held in reserve following Stanton Albert’s earlier than expected departure from the club, and we have combined that along with a new donation which made all the difference in securing Krisnan’s signature for next season.
“VIQI have been a long-term partner of the club and have been instrumental in a number of key signings and I want to express my gratitude to all of those Members for their support once again.”
See more Widnes Vikings news in Monday’s edition of League Express.
