Search

show me:

Proud Kahu ready to take Cowboys chance

3 minute read

Jordan Kahu sees his sudden move north as a chance to finally nail down the No.1 jersey after an NRL career in Brisbane not helped by persistent injuries.

BEN BARBA of the Sharks runs the ball during the NRL match between the Newcastle Knights and the Cronulla Sharks at Hunter Stadium in Newcastle, Australia.
BEN BARBA of the Sharks runs the ball during the NRL match between the Newcastle Knights and the Cronulla Sharks at Hunter Stadium in Newcastle, Australia. Picture: Tony Feder/Getty Images

The North Queensland top literally didn't fit when Jordan Kahu completed his whirlwind pre-season move from Brisbane this week.

But the likely replacement for the sacked Ben Barba at fullback says he's quickly settling in and intent on making the most of his one-season deal at the NRL club.

So late was Kahu's arrival that only XXL uniforms remained in the kit bag, leaving the newcomer swimming in his new colours on arrival.

But, knowing there was no place for him in Anthony Seibold's first-choice Broncos side this year, the 28-year-old believes the sudden move north was worth it to revive his first-grade career.

"It does to be honest, yesterday was probably the weirdest when they gave me all 2XLs because all the gear had gone out," he said.

"So that was a funny start and I'd been at the Broncos since end of 2009, so nearly 10 years and all I've known for the last decade."

Brisbane's overflowing backline stocks meant Kahu was likely to be squeezed out of the frame following a career at Red Hill stunted by injury.

But Barba's NRL ban has opened a door for the well-respected New Zealand international, who has always had his sights on holding down the No.1 jersey at NRL level.

"I was smart enough and knew I didn't really fit into the (Brisbane) team," he said, clarifying that he was yet to earn his spot at fullback.

"I want to play NRL obviously and I couldn't see that opportunity at the Broncos unless there was an injury.

"And who knows when that was going to happen and I wasn't willing to wait around.

"I just felt I was good enough to play in the NRL week in, week out."

The former rugby union talent hasn't ruled out a return to the code but says there's plenty left to achieve in league.

"I'm proud of myself that I've got this far after all the injuries and adversity that I've faced," he said.

"It (95 games) doesn't seem like a lot, but I think I've had 10 surgeries now and I'm proud of myself to hopefully tick that milestone off this year."

Think. Is this a bet you really want to place?

For free and confidential support call 1800 858 858 or visit www.gamblinghelponline.org.au