Whatuira needs to bide his time

The former New Zealand international has recovered from the illness which saw him locked in a secure psychiatric hospital for almost a fortnight last October after attacking two strangers.

Whatuira, 28, escaped court action and is now eager to help Huddersfield as they attempt to build on the success of last season.

However, Brown opted for England Academy centre Michael Lawrence ahead of him in their opening win against Bradford Bulls last Friday.

Whatuira is in an unchanged 19-man squad for their trip to Hull FC tomorrow but the coach is likely to link Lawrence with Jamahl Lolesi once more.

"I'm fit but I won't be playing," said Whatuira. "Jamma and Michael Lawrence had a good pre-season, trained hard and the coach has given them first crack at a starting spot.

"I feel like I probably wasn't playing my best football last year and could have contributed more.

"But I'm looking forward to getting back out there. I'm fresh, healthy and, mentally, I'm ready to play.

"Hopefully I'll get a chance next week, though I know I might have to bide my time."

Hull FC coach Richard Agar has also named an unchanged squad after their impressive triumph at St Helens.