Huddersfield sign Aussie prop

Huddersfield have signed Australian prop Shannon Wakeman for the 2017 campaign.

The 26-year old was at the Illawarra Cutters last year gaining selection to the NSW Intrust Cup team of the Year as well as helping the Cutters to the League title in 2016.

Giants coach Rick Stone said Wakeman was a direct replacement for Craig Huby in his 2017 squad: “Obviously the move away by Craig came a bit out of left field and left us searching for an established and experienced out and out front row forward.

“I had already considered Shannon for further down the line for us but when our situation changed then Shannon was my go to guy to come across.

“I have seen plenty of him in action back home and he is a big mobile type of front rower and I know he wants a crack at the top flight which is something I am pleased we can give him.

“He is at the stage of his career now where if he is going to make the big breakthrough then he needs an opportunity and a start – we can provide both for him and I am quietly confident that he can bring a lot to our squad.

“He is a big man around 6’2 and as you’ll have seen from his highlights clips he can motor a bit.”

Wakeman is looking forward to joining the Giants:

“I am happy to have a new challenge overseas and in the Super League at Huddersfield,” he said.

“I’ll be teaming up again with my front row partner Sebastine Ikahihifo who played last year with us for a while before he moved to the UK so it’ll be good to have a familiar face when I get there.

“I’ll spend Christmas here in Australia and then as soon as my documentation comes through I’ll be straight across and ready to rip in for the Giants.

“I’ve wanted a crack full time in the top grade for a long time now and reckon I’ve served my apprenticeship so the opportunity at Huddersfield is great for me and one that I want to make the most of.”