By Phil Gordos

Drew signs for Giants

Win or lose the Gillette Tri-Nations final, Great Britain is no longer a haven for Australia's nearly men.

So says Huddersfield new boy Brad Drew, who insists the days are long gone when Super League could be regarded as a soft touch by his fellow antipodeans.

"Players on the verge of the NRL used to be able to come over here but Super League clubs are getting pickier," he told BBC Sport.

"The competition is no longer a bail-out for players who can't make it over there.

"The game is improving all the time and that is why it has become more appealing.

"I didn't want to miss the chance of playing over here, so I jumped at the opportunity when Huddersfield came in for me."

It could be argued Drew only showed interest in the Giants because he found chances few and far between at Canberra.

But Australia coach Wayne Bennett is quick to put the record straight, insisting the Raiders failed to get the best out of the hooker because they played him out of position.

Brad is a magnificent hooker and that's where he should be played Australia coach Wayne Bennett

"I rate Brad very highly," said Bennett. "But coaches must have rocks between their ears if they use him as a half-back, which has been the case in recent seasons.

"Brad is a magnificent hooker and that's where he should be played. If the Giants do that they will see a player who will cause opponents all sorts of trouble around the ruck."

Huddersfield, who have also snapped up former Australia centre Michael De Vere, agree and have described Drew as one of their biggest-ever signings.

The 29-year-old from Sydney plays down the accolade but is determined to help turn the Giants into a top-four team.

"It's an exciting challenge and a great adventure for me," said the former Parramatta player.

"I'm looking forward to playing some good footy after a disappointing couple of seasons.

Brad Drew likes what he sees following his arrival in Huddersfield

"I'm going to be playing at hooker rather than half-back, which is a position that I'm not really that fond of, so I'm very happy to be here."

Drew arrived in Huddersfield on Tuesday and has quickly settled in.

"Everything has exceeded my expectations," he said.

"I'd found out a lot about the town from the internet but I was expecting it to look and feel a lot older than it is. I've been blow away.

"The stadium is fantastic and everyone is so helpful, professional and welcoming. It is definitely my cup of tea."

And who's going to win the Tri-Nations final? For an Australian, Drew is surprisingly non-committal.

"I'm not that concerned," he said.

He must be the only Aussie that isn't.