Huddersfield Giants gamble on injured Ireland prop Jolliffe

Facing a disastrous start to the 2026 Super League, the Huddersfield Giants, languishing bottom of the table after 17 defeats in 19 games, have turned to Ireland prop Jaimin Jolliffe, who is nursing an ACL injury suffered in January, as a potential catalyst.

Jolliffe arrives with a solid NRL résumé, having logged 102 National Rugby League appearances and crossed for six tries. The 29‑year‑old prop has proven his durability at first‑grade level and brings a wealth of experience to the Giants' front row.

He is also an Ireland international, earning two caps at the 2022 World Cup. This underscores his ability to perform on the sport’s biggest stage.

The prop ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament in January, missing the entire season for the Gold Coast Titans. He was unavailable for any competitive matches.

Huddersfield have reached an agreement with the Gold Coast Titans to secure Jolliffe on a permanent deal. The move reunites him with former Titans head coach Jim Lenihan, who oversaw his tenure in Queensland.

"We've got Jimmy for next year, so that's been really good," Lenihan told BBC Radio Leeds. He said Jolliffe has a great character and will add to the club off the field and to its leadership on the field. Lenihan added that the prop is at a good age for the Giants and arrives with extensive NRL experience as a proper first‑grade player. He noted that Jolliffe had opportunities to stay with the Titans but chose a change that benefits both him and the Giants.

The acquisition is intended to strengthen the Giants' leadership and on‑field performance as they strive to reverse their fortunes. The club hopes the addition will help them climb out of the relegation zone.

The Giants expect Jolliffe’s experience to boost both the locker room and matchday performance. His leadership is seen as much‑needed as the team attempts to escape the bottom of the Super League.