Transfer news: Former Leeds Rhinos prop on the market

Mitch Garbutt is something of a cult hero at the Leeds Rhinos. Garbutt joined the club from the Brisbane Broncos midway through the 2015 season, and formed a key part of the Rhinos’ treble winning side. He was also a member of the team which lifted the club’s most recent Super League title in 2017.

Although, he is perhaps best remembered for a punch on James Tamou, which earned him a red card in the 2016 World Club Challenge, against a North Queensland Cowboys side featuring Jonathan Thurston.

After leaving Leeds, Garbutt had spells with Hull KR and Toulouse Olympique. Garbutt appeared to have taken to life in the South of France well, and then agreed a deal as player-coach of RC Saint-Gaudens, who play in the French Elite One Competition.

However, having failed to make the end of season play-offs this year, Garbutt will leave the club after two years in charge.

Former Leeds Rhinos man leaves RC Saint-Gaudens

In a short statement announcing Garbutt’s departure at the end of the season, RC Saint-Gaudens said: “Racing Club Saint-Gaudinois Comminges XIII’s player-coach, Mitch Garbutt, has recently decided he would like to take his professional career in a new direction.

“The club has taken this into account, and would like to thank Mitchell Garbutt for the work he has put into Racing, and wishes success in his new role.”

Garbutt achieved success in his first year at St Gaudens, leading the team to a 6th place finish, and earning a spot in the play-offs. However, this year saw the Bears struggle, winning just four games and finishing in eighth place. AS Carcassone, who have applied to follow Catalans Dragons and Toulouse by joining the English system, finished top at the end of the regular season.

Garbutt’s future unclear

Garbutt has not announced whether this will be the end of a distinguished playing career, or whether he will stay in Europe playing rugby. The French season has now been completed, meaning Garbutt is available for transfer. He could provide an unexpected boost to a side lacking power through the middle.

Garbutt spent the off-season in 2023 playing for the Grafton Ghosts First Grade side in the Tooheys New First Grade Competition in Australia. So it is possible that a permanent return to Australia may be on the cards after nine years in Europe.

Could he make a shock return to Leeds Rhinos? Just as Ryan Hall will do for the 2025 season. Time will tell.