Leeds Rhinos legend Kevin Sinfield has claimed that he has ‘never left’ rugby league when quizzed about if and when fans could expect to see him back involved with the sport.
Sinfield was in attendance alongside six other members of the 2004 squad that won Leeds their first-ever Super League Grand Final as the club celebrated ‘Reunion Round’, honouring those who won in both 2004 and 2014.
Alongside Kevin Sinfield were the likes of Jamie Peacock, Jamie Jones-Buchanan and Barrie McDermott, the latter working on commentary for Sky Sports as Leeds won 18-6 to breathe life into their playoff hopes.
Sinfield also spoke to Sky Sports before the match, thanking the broadcasters for the way in which they honoured Rob Burrow but also on Rugby League in general. Asked about Leeds Rhinos, Sinfield noted the difference that had been made under newly-contracted coach Brad Arthur.
“I really like how they’ve been defending since Brad has come in. I know Jon, you’ve been pretty vocal about how they defended previously. I love the fact we’re being aggressive and getting off the line,” Sinfield explained.
“I want them to play with freedom. We all know you need your forward pack to take you forward and give your halves time so that they’re on the ball and they’re playing on the front foot.
“I don’t think we’ve seen that at all for the last couple of years. Hopefully, the forwards can get on top tonight and put on a good show.”
What is next for Kevin Sinfield?
Credit: Imago Images
Leeds certainly did put on a good show, at least for the second 40 minutes anyway as they came from 6-0 down to win 18-6 and reduce the gap to just two points between themselves and playoff sides Catalans, St Helens and Salford.
Both St Helens and Salford play today against Hull KR and Huddersfield respectively so they could re-open a four-point gap if they win but the Rhinos have certainly given themselves hope in the race for the playoffs.
With Kevin Sinfield in attendance and big change going on at Leeds Rhinos, Sky Sports host Brian Carney asked the former Leeds skipper when fans could see him back in rugby league, to which he provided a surprising answer.
“I feel like I’ve never left,” Sinfield responded.
“I might not be employed in the sport anymore, but I feel like I’ve never left. I’m still a trustee of Rugby League Cares, I want to help our players. I want to help our past and current players and those who will start to play for many years hopefully. So I feel like I’ve never left.
“I’m a fan of the sport, I love the way that rugby league has got behind the MND community. I’m so proud of it, so proud of what you guys have done. I honestly mean that. I think Sky Sports Rugby League have done us proud.”
Sinfield currently still works in the England Rugby Union set-up despite initially planning to step down after the World Cup.
