ZAK Hardaker has embraced his new role in the second row for Hull FC, even if he does not plan on staying there.
What was meant to be a one-off move into the pack due to injuries has now turned into a six games and counting spell which is set to continue when the Black and Whites head to Catalans Dragons on Saturday.
Although it has taken Hardaker somewhat out of his comfort zone, the former England international has embraced the challenge and is even taking enjoyment from playing in the back row.
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“I’m actually enjoying it a lot more than I thought I was going to do,” Hardaker told BBC Radio Humberside.
“I thought it was just going to be for one week, then it got onto two and three. Sometimes injuries occur in season and people have to play out of position, but I’m happy to do what’s best for the team.
“At the minute, I’m doing a lot tackles and a lot of carries, but I’m getting involved a lot more and I’m enjoying it. It is tough, but I’m enjoying the role.
“Hopefully I’m not going to be there all season, but if that’s the case then so be it.”
The 33-year-old began the 2025 Betfred Super League season in his more familiar threequarter position after moving to Hull FC from Leigh Leopards over the winter.
He is far from the first player to make a late-career transition from centre to back row, but hopes to return to the back line once the likes of Jed Cartwright, Jordan Lane, Brad Fash and Oliver Holmes start to return from injury.
“We’ve got an abundance of talent, it’s just at the minute we’ve got a lot of injuries and hopefully in the next few weeks we’ve got a few people back,” Hardaker said.
“That’s going to give [head coach] John [Cartwright] a headache and if he keeps me in the back row, he keeps me in the back row.
“If I’m playing back row and we keep winning, I’m not too bothered.”