Maiava makes Hull switch

Hull FC have announced the signing of Cronulla Sharks prop Hutch Maiava on a two-year contract.

The 30-year-old New Zealander will join Peter Sharp?s squad for the start of next season.

Maiava burst on to the scene with Canterbury Bulldogs just three years ago after being spotted playing in the New Zealand national competition. He moved to the Sharks last year.

Maiava said: "I can?t wait to get over there and get stuck in. I hope to establish myself in the top group of props and it is a great opportunity to be joining a strong team like Hull.

"Peter Sharp is a very good coach and I am looking forward to playing under him. I hear the British competition is pretty rough and ready so it should suit me down to the ground. I started late so I have heaps of miles left in me."

Maiava, who has a brother called Starsky, was named after the character in the hit TV show Starsky and Hutch.

"Yeah, my parents were pretty big fans!" said Maiava. "It has always been a bit of fun.

"It?s not bad being named after a funny pair. I think Hutch was played by Owen Wilson in the movie so that must make me the better looking one."

The strong-running forward is yet to represent his country. He was called up for this year?s Anzac Test against Australia but was forced to pull out through injury.

Sharp said: "Hutch is a ?go-forward? player with great physical strength and size.

"He has been a top performer in the NRL for three seasons now and I?m confident he will be successful in Super League."

Hull second row Lee Radford, 27, has also agreed a 12-month contract extension at the KC Stadium.

Radford, who joined his hometown club from Bradford this year, has been an ever-present this season.


Source: superleague.co.uk