St Helens confirm capture of Fiji captain Kevin Naiqama
St Helens have confirmed the signing of Fiji captain Kevin Naiqama from Wests Tigers on a three-year deal from next season.
The 29-year-old has scored 47 tries in 102 NRL appearances for Newcastle Knights, Penrith Panthers and Wests Tigers.
He will link up with his new Saints team-mates in pre-season ahead of 2019.
Naiqama, who has earned 15 caps for Fiji, says he is delighted to make the switch to Super League.
He said: “I am really looking forward to getting over to St Helens for the next three years.
“I love the fact the club is family orientated and the fact they are successful. They are one of the top teams who are always competing and that is appealing to me.
“The thought of winning a Super League Grand Final or Challenge Cup would be unreal and I feel I can do that with the Saints and the squad they have.
“I have a lot to offer; I am a versatile player who can play on the left or right and I still feel I am learning too. I don’t feel I have reached the pinnacle of my football yet and St Helens can help me do that. I feel they can bring more football out of me defensively and with the ball in hand.
“I feel I have made a great choice to join the club – now my focus is on this season with the Tigers. They have been a massive contributor to how I am as a player and I will be giving them my best as we look to reach the semis and beyond.
“I want to leave here on a good note but I am also looking forward to getting over to St Helens for the next three years and hopefully helping them achieve further success.”
Saints coach Justin Holbrook says the capture of Naiqama is brilliant business by the current Super League leaders.
He said: “Kevin is a great coup for the club and we’re really looking forward to having him on board next season.
“He has a wealth of experience in the NRL and, as current captain of Fiji, will bring leadership to our side.
“He’s lightning quick too, with great hands, and can finish from all over the park.”
Kevin is the brother of Wes Naiqama, who played for London Broncos between 2015 and 2016.
