Faiumu may grab an early Giants debut

Jun 9 2008 by Chris Roberts, Huddersfield Daily Examiner

DAVID FAIUMU could make his Giants’ Super League debut as early as next Sunday!

Huddersfield have confirmed they are close to completing the signing of the New Zealand Test utility forward from top Australian NRL club North Queensland Cowboys.

Giants managing director Richard Thewlis has stressed the deal has still not been fully completed.

However, it is believed the Galpharm club are doing everything within their power to bring Faiumu over in time to make his debut at Wakefield in six days’ time.

The Giants have lined up the 25-year-old hooker or second-rower as a direct replacement for George Gatis, who returned home to Australia in April for personal reasons.

And there’s no doubt Faiumu would be a quality addition to the squad.

He has made 75 appearances in the NRL for the Cowboys since making his debut in 2004 and played for the Kiwis in the second Test against Great Britain at Hull in November.

He then won his ninth cap against France a fortnight later.

“We began talking with David about three weeks ago and verbal agreement was reached subject to the usual overseas issues,” said Thewlis.

“It is our policy to formally announce signings when all issues are cleared and the player has passed all the necessary hurdles.

“While this process is almost clear, it would be inappropriate for us to have said more prior to the breaking news down under, which to a degree forces our hand.

“I realise some may see the timing of this as strange, but the opportunity to sign a current International is a rarity and one that we set in motion some time back.

“We will be honouring all the promises made to David and his family, subject to his joining the club, which we would hope would be in the not too distant future.

“I will add, though, that this is not yet a done deal.”