Thursday 17 October 2019 09:09, UK
Huddersfield Giants have signed Samoa forward James Gavet on a two-year deal from Newcastle Knights.
The 29-year old prop has been released from the last year of his contract with the Australia-based Knights team to enable him to make the move to Super League from the National Rugby League (NRL).
Gavet, who has made 74 appearances in the NRL for Canterbury Bulldogs, Wests Tigers, Brisbane, New Zealand Warriors and Newcastle, is part of the Samoa team competing at the inaugural World Nines Cup in Sydney, live on Sky Sports.
"We were looking to add some size and aggression to our pack and we felt James was the best person to fill that role," said Giants coach Simon Woolford.
"James had a number of options including some top Super League clubs, so we're thankful to James and his management for making the choice to come to Huddersfield and we feel this is a major coup for the club.
"We feel it's a very significant signing for the club moving forward in our quest to become a top-five Super League team."
Gavet becomes the Giants' third season for 2020 following the arrival of lock Kenny Edwards from Catalans Dragons and Leeds full-back Ashton Golding.
The Sydney-born player says he spoke to a couple of former team-mates before opting for Huddersfield, who finished third from bottom of Super League in 2019, just two points above relegated London Broncos.
"I spoke to guys that I've played with, like Suaia Matagi and Ukuma Ta'ai and they told me about the talent in the squad and how well the team should have done last year," Gavet said.
"They said that the position on the ladder didn't represent the potential the team had and I have always rated them and their honesty.
"They are people I know and trust. I hope I can strengthen them and help them fulfil their potential. From what I've heard, they are heading in the right direction.
"I hope I can be the piece that fits perfectly to complete the puzzle."
