Adam Cuthbertson will return to Headingley one last time to play the final game of his career as the Leeds Rhinos take on New Zealand this Saturday as the Kiwis look ahead to the World Cup.
Cuthbertson spent six years with the Rhinos, making 157 appearances, as well as winning two Grand Finals and three Challenge Cups.
After leaving the Rhinos he spent time in the Championship with York City Knights and most recently with Featherstone Rovers.
Speaking to Leeds Rhinos YouTube he explained how much he wants to enjoy the occasion being back at Headingley.
“It’s nice to get back on Headingley Stadium for a bit of a hit out,” Cuthbertson said. “I was pinching myself coming in this morning. It reminded me of my first day rocking up in 2014.
“It was nice to get into the facilities and see some familiar faces from my time here,” he continued. “Its just for the week so I’m just going to really enjoy it while I have the chance to be back.”
Cuthbertson was also part of the Leeds squad who played against New Zealand in 2015 with, the Kiwis running out 34-16 on that night. The result was not important to Cuthbertson and his Rhinos squad as they had just won the treble but the occasion is what he remembers the most.
“It was outstanding that night the atmosphere and playing alongside some of the boys who was leaving as well as some new young faces getting an opportunity against a world class team like New Zealand,” Cuthbertson added. “It was a world class event that night and a hell of a way to cap off that season.”
Cuthbertson isn’t the only player who will be hanging up his boots after this game as New Zealand’s Tommy Leuluai is also calling time on his career and will be representing his nation for one final time at Headingley. The Leeds prop paid tribute to his fellow player.
“He’s given me a few rib tickles in my time,” Cuthbertson joked. “He’s been brilliant servant of the game and been a true leader for Wigan in his time there.
“I think its an outstanding tribute to him and being able to finish in that jersey which means so much to the New Zealand is an outstanding thing for them to do.”
Leeds take on New Zealand this Saturday (October 8) at Headingley Stadium in what promises to be a great occasion for the sport as the excitement builds for the World Cup.
