Ukuma Ta’ai signs new deal at Huddersfield Giants

Huddersfield Giants have handed popular forward Ukuma Ta’ai a new contract with the club, tying him to the Giants until the end of the 2018 season.

The 29-year-old has made 114 appearances for the Giants, scoring 33 tries and his consistent performances saw him feature in every game for the club in 2016.

“I am so excited that the club has given me the opportunity to stay,” Ta’ai said.

“I love Huddersfield, it’s a small town but the fans are fantastic and I am excited to be given the chance to stay here for another two years.

“Since Rick [Stone] has been here, he has been great for us and I’m looking forward to pre-season so we can achieve more next season and hopefully the fans get behind us and buy a season ticket because they have really lifted us this year.”

Giants Managing Director Richard Thewlis added: “The Ukuma retention was done some time back but as with other deals done there have been legalities which prevent immediate announcements.

“As and when we are able to make announcements regarding the 2017 squad we will do so but the forefront of our thinking is player welfare and supporters have to recognise that and be assured that the club is making every endeavour on the back of the season ticket launch to have the first full year of “The New Stone Age” as a memorable one.”