Upbeat Ukuma Ta’ai is predicting his form will get even hotter as the weather improves.
The Huddersfield Giants back-row forward’s recent blockbusting performances have earned him a nomination for the Super League Player of the Month award for April.
The 28-year-old Tonga World Cup star produced a typically power-packed display in last week’s thrilling 24-24 home draw with leaders Leeds Rhinos and is relishing Friday’s trip to Salford Red Devils – particularly if the temperatures start to soar.
“I’m really loving the way things are going at the moment,” said Ta’ai, who has proved an outstanding back-row replacement for the injured Brett Ferres (his ankle injury is expected to keep him sidelined for at least another month).
“This is the strongest and fittest I’ve felt in the three seasons I’ve been here, and playing so much gametime is definitely helping.
“I’m happy with the form I’ve been showing, but I know I can get even better when the sun’s shining and the pitches get firmer. I can’t wait for that.
“But what’ll make me even happier is playing in the warmer conditions and helping us get more wins.
“There’s a really good balance in the team at the moment, and I know there’s still a lot more to come from us.
“We feel ready to build on our second-half performance against Leeds last week and go and beat Salford on Friday night.
“The mood among everyone is very positive.”
