Huddersfield Giants forward switches to Halifax

The 21-year-old made a big impression for the Super League club last season, featuring nine times, but new head coach Ian Watson is blessed with options ahead of the latest campaign.

Giants have signed England second-row Joe Greenwood from Wigan Warriors as well as Great Britain’s Josh Jones from Hull FC.

They also have ex-Queensland State of Origin star Chris McQueen, former Kiwi international Kenny Edwards and the experienced Joe Wardle in their back-row ranks.

Huddersfield managing director Richard Thewlis said: “The development of younger players has been hugely affected, as we are all aware, by the Covid pandemic and as the rules stand at the moment there will be no reserve games nor the opportunity to dual register players in the BetFred 2021 Season.

"Of course that may change in time. However, for the here and now, it is essential for Sam's development as a player that he plays week in, week out and the opportunity at Halifax is excellent.

"He will complete the entire pre season with ourselves and then get the game-time in what looks like a very strong Halifax side that most believe will be competing at the top end of the Championship.

“From our perspective, if our senior back-rowers get an injury we’d have a match-fit and game-ready Sam Hewitt available to come straight back in so in that sense it’s a win/win win for all three parties.”

Halifax are due to start their competitive season against Batley Bulldogs in the Challenge Cup around March 21 but are expected to be in friendly action before then.

Hewitt made one appearance for Halifax at the start of last season and Thewlis added: “The relationship that we have with Halifax is excellent at all levels.

“Personally, I sincerely hope that they can gain the promotion to the BetFred Super League that they are striving for and we can enjoy our derby tussles and local rivalry again.”

Hewitt said: “If you look at the the ambition of the club with the quality of signings that have been made - and already within the squad - it's obvious that the goal come the end of the season is to be right up there and with a chance to win something and that's important for me I want to win.”

“I think the squad will be definitely aiming for a top 4 finish with the aim to win something at the back end of year and I believe with quality in the squad that is a very realistic goal. “

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