There is plenty of optimism surrounding Leeds Rhinos ahead of the 2024 season. The Headingley outfit have made waves on the recruitment front, bringing in the likes of Paul Momirovski, Brodie Croft and Andy Ackers-and this has given fresh hope to the Rhinos faithful of success next season. However, one big question surrounding the club is who will lead the team as captain in 2024?
Last year, Rohan Smith opted for a senior leadership group approach, with the responsibilities of the captaincy being divided amongst the team leaders. On match-day, the likes of Kruise Leeming, Cameron Smith and Ash Handley all took the mantle, but in reality it was a group responsibility. This new form of captaincy didn’t have the desired effect, and it could be the case this season that the Rhinos have that traditional captain, as the Yorkshire Post have reported Rohan Smith is set to appoint one captain next season; but who could it be?
With that in mind, here are four contenders to be the new Leeds Rhinos captain.
Cameron Smith
The most obvious choice of them all is Cameron Smith. Smith led the Rhinos out on multiple occasions last year, and is already considered a leader within the squad. He is a passionate player, and typically puts his body on the line for those around him. He is also usually in the thick of the action and drags his team into good positions on the pitch, and is always seen talking to his troops. He has all the skills required to be a good captain.
Ash Handley
Ash Handley is another one who led the Rhinos out last season, and he is an experienced professional who knows what it takes to win silverware. He is a key player for the Rhinos, and usually lets his actions do the talking for him with important pieces of play in game. He isn’t your field general, as he is usually stalking down the wings, but he has proven he has the necessary skills to be captain, and he would make a fine one at that.
Harry Newman
I know what you’re thinking, but Harry Newman could be a fantastic captain for Leeds Rhinos. It is a left field pick, however he is one of the more passionate players in the Rhinos squad and he really wears his heart on his sleeve. Last season, his frustrations could boil over; but his time in the England set-up seemed to have an effect on him. During the three match Autumn Series, Newman appeared to be a more mature player, and was often seen calming down his England teammates. Giving him the captaincy could help him mature in a Rhinos shirt too, and turn that burning passion into a way to inspire his teammates. It’s left-field, but it could be a brilliant appointment.
Mikolaj Oledzki
‘Big Mik’ is another one who was part of the core leadership group last season, and he could easily be appointed club captain this season. In a similar vain to Handley, he usually lets his actions do the talking on the pitch. His ball carrying is a huge part of the Rhinos attack, and he is always the first one to nominate himself to put in the hard yards. He leads from the front on the pitch, and he would make a fine club captain.
