Huddersfield Giants back rower Ukuma Ta’ai deserves his shot at becoming Super League player of the month for April says head coach Paul Anderosn.

The 28-year-old Tongan international was included in the shortlist of five announced by sponsor First Utility.

“It is good for Ukuma to be included, there is no doubt that he has deserved it,” said Anderson.

“But it also reflects on how we have progressed as a team, and I am sure Ukuma would be the first to point out that he wouldn’t be up for the reward without the efforts of those around him.”

The April First Utility Super League Player of the Month shortlist is as follows: Ukuma Ta’ai (Huddersfield Giants), Adam Cuthbertson (leeds Rhinos), Dom Manfredi (Wigan Warriors), Anthony Gelling (Wigan Warriors) and Terry Campese (Hull KR).