SUPER LEAGUE BATTLE CRYER!

Kev: Imports army ready to be new Superheroes

KEVIN NAIQAMA is a man who proudly weeps before games – then goes out and reduces opponents to tears.

Then, after battering anyone standing in his way, the new St Helens star likes to head out into the wider community with a message of love and religious faith.

And with the clock ticking down towards a mouthwatering new season, the heavily tattooed Fiji captain will be leading the way in spreading the Super League gospel too.

He is one of a whole raft of exciting new overseas stars who will grace the game this season, providing a massive injection of fresh X Factor and entertainment.

Naiqama will be at the forefront with his strong-running centre talent – but he’s predicting plenty of thrills across the board from the newcomers.

Incoming

Jason Clark. Leeds have responded to their torrid 2018 campaign by adding Trent Merrin, Konrad ‘ Hurrellcane’ Hurrell and Tuimoala Lolohea.

Huddersfield have also signed Akuila ‘the thriller’ Uate and it’s an array of talent that could shake up Super League.

Heart

But few are likely to throw themselves into local community life quite as much as the deeply religious Naiqama.

He said: “I am blessed that football has given me a platform to reach people. For me that is what comes first in my heart.

“I am always open to giving talks and helping people. It gives my life purpose.”

During the last World Cup he got so emotional praying before games, and also singing Fiji’s national anthem, that he would cry copiously.

Naiqama said: “I am a person that wears my heart on my sleeve.

“I was proud to represent Fiji and hopefully I can bring that to the St Helens team.”

Saints coach

Justin Holbrook has even joked that he will even l e t Naiqama introduce a team prayer if it helps them to success.

Holbrook said: “Whatever he needs to do

I’m happy with.

He’s a great player, a good guy and has got the sort of infectious laugh that makes everyone happy.”

Leeds s i gning

Hurrell is a former New

Zealand weightlifting champion and also the quickest player at former club Gold Coast Titans.

But the 16-stone centre is expecting full-on battles every week in Super League.

He said: “It doesn’t matter how big or quick you are – players throw their bodies at you because everyone wants to win so much.”