Krisnan Inu is no stranger to success in the Betfred Challenge Cup.
The Salford Red Devils assistant coach was part of the Red Devils side that reached the final back in 2020.
Unfortunately for Inu, that day at Wembley ended in a 17-16 defeat to Leeds Rhinos; Luke Gale’s late drop goal the difference in what was a thrilling final.
Having retired from playing at the end of last year, the 36-year-old’s first opportunity for silverware as a coach comes in the form of this season’s Challenge Cup.
But there’s a familiar foe standing in the way of the Red Devils in Round Six. Former head coach Ian Watson brings his Huddersfield Giants side to the Salford Stadium – which includes Inu’s former teammates in Luke Yates and Tui Lolohea.
“We’re expecting nothing but the best from Watto’s team [Ian Watson],” Inu said.
“Having been head coach of Salford previously, he’s going to come all guns blazing.
“It’s a do or die game. You’re not fighting for two points. Someone is going to go through, and someone is going to go out, so we know we must be at our best.”
Salford are in decent form ahead of Saturday’s cup tie. They were beaten by St Helens last time out but did win their previous four Super League games and currently sit 6th in the table.
On the Red Devils’ start to 2023, Inu said: “We’re probably not where we want to be in the ladder, but that will come as the season progresses.
“No one is perfect, and we have plenty to work on, but overall, we’ve competed well.
“Injuries haven’t helped but we’re close to getting more numbers back on the field, which would be great.”
Salford were beaten by the Giants 26-16 in April’s Super League clash. However, they will be confident of reversing that result against a Huddersfield team in bad form.
A win would be the first step on the road to potential Challenge Cup glory. Inu would love to be part of a successful cup run with the Red Devils but is cautious of looking too far ahead.
“I’d be head over heels to be part of a winning team,” he outlined.
“I think I’d be more excited for the boys after all the hard they’ve put in throughout the year so far.
“So, if we did get to lift a trophy, I’d be super happy for them.
“But that’s in the future, we just need to focus on putting in a performance against a good Giants side on Saturday first.”
You can watch Salford Red Devils’ Round Six Challenge Cup against Huddersfield Giants on Viaplay Sports, Saturday 20 May, 7:30pm KO.
