Ikahihifo joins Salford on loan

Salford Red Devils have completed the signing of forward Sebastine Ikahihifo on a season-long loan from Huddersfield Giants. The Red Devils are looking to build on last season’s surprise run to the Super League Grand Final and the capture of Ikahihifo will further boost their options in the pack, following on from the recent arrivals of Ryan Lannon, Luke Yates, Pauli Pauli and James Greenwood. Ikahihifo, who has spent the last four seasons with the Giants after arriving from NRL outfit New Zealand Warriors in 2016, is certainly looking forward to the fresh challenge that awaits him at the AJ Bell Stadium and he is convinced he can rediscover his best form under Salford coach Ian Watson. “I’m looking forward to coming into a new environment. Speaking to Ian Watson, I know he values culture and a team bond,” said Ikahihifo. “I know he’s brought a lot out of players like Tui [Lolohea] and [Krisnan] Inu, and I’m determined to work hard, so I’m sure I can get back to my best form.” Watson is also looking forward to working with Ikahihifo, admitting the 28-year-old is someone he has been tracking for a long time. “Seb’s a great addition to our squad and will make our pack even more formidable this season, working alongside the likes of [Lee] Mossop, [Gil] Dudson and [Pauli] Pauli,” Watson added. “He’s a player who I’ve been chasing for a number of seasons. His power and pace has always impressed when playing for the Giants.”