Bradford Bulls have announced the signing of powerhouse front-rower Epalahame Lauaki, who has provided supporters with an extra special Christmas gift after putting pen to paper on a two-year deal with the club.
Lauaki, 30, arrives from NRL side Manly Sea Eagles, where he spent the majority of last season after departing Wigan Warriors. Prior to joining Wigan, the New Zealand and Tonga international enjoyed stints with New Zealand Warriors and Hull FC.
Standing at 6ft and weighing in at almost 18 stone, the explosive forward burst onto the Super League scene back in 2009 and represented the Exiles on two occasions.
The cousin of former Provident Stadium star Tevita Vaikona, Lauaki is relishing the prospect of returning to the UK as a Bull.
“I am so excited to be joining such a big and well-known club like Bradford,” said Ha’apai-born Lauaki. “I believe I will bring some experience and toughness to our team and I cannot wait to get started.
“The Championship is a challenge I am looking forward to. We will be going up against some good teams, who will be certainly looking forward to playing us.
“There is a really solid squad in place at Bradford but I want to be in the 17, which means I have plenty of hard work ahead of me.”
Bulls head coach James Lowes has spoken of his delight following Lauaki’s capture, insisting the Kiwi has the ability to “wreak havoc” in 2015
“Epalahame is an extremely talented individual and we are really pleased to have secured his services,” added the Bradford boss. “He has an explosive approach and comes with an ability to wreak havoc in short spells. “Epalahame gives us something I believe we don’t currently have. He certainly adds to an already impressive squad and will prove vital for some of our young and upcoming forwards.
“We have a young roster, so the experience he brings will certainly help aid the future progress of the likes of Dan Fleming, Samir Tahraoui and Karl Davies.”
State of Mind would like to wish Epalahame and the Bradford Bulls all the very best in 2015