Three games into his Sharks career, just when we were starting to get excited about the prospects going forward, James Segeyaro broke his right arm and from that point on it became an uphill battle.
Segeyaro returned some three months later, assumed a starting role in the absence of injured youngster Jayden Brailey, however the time away had made it difficult for him to put a personal stamp on the Sharks team in 2017.
He certainly had his moments, his speed out of dummy half at times threatening to brake games open, while Segeyaro’s desire, attitude and work ethic were without question, certainly when injured and then upon his return.
Is set to again engage in a battle with Brailey for game time at hooker in 2018 but after returning from the World Cup where he will represent PNG and with an off-season under his belt, one which will allow him to bring his fitness levels to a peak while also familiarising himself with the Sharks systems, expect a much-improved Segeyaro next year.
Season highlight: In his third game for the club Segeyaro showed his class as well as his toughness in the Sharks round six win over the Melbourne Storm. Segeyaro was Johnny-on-the-spot to score the lone try of the match in the Sharks 11-2 win, but it was his clever kicking game and speed around the ruck which impressed most. Also broke his arm in one of his first involvements in the match but bravely played out 28 minutes in helping secure the result.
2017 Stats: James Segeyaro
Games played: 12
Tries: 1
Runs: 42
Run Metres: 304
Dummy half runs: 25
Off loads: 9
Tackles: 254
Average tackles: 21.2
