Leeds Rhinos boss Rohan Smith sends out ominous message on Kruise Leeming to Super League rivals

Kruise Leeming will be back for this week’s game against Huddersfield Giants, Leeds Rhinos head coach Rohan Smith has confirmed.

The Eswatini-born hooker was initially ruled out for longer, with the full season a doubt but Leeming has returned with time to spare ahead of the Super League clash with Huddersfield tomorrow.

And, Smith has waxed lyrical about Leeming and how he has got himself into better condition than before he was injured.

“We’re going to need everyone in the next couple of games. I think for Kruise he has really used this time to focus on his own game,” Smith said.

“He has really got himself around how coaches have been thinking and spent time with us. I’m looking forward to seeing Kruise in a part of the game tomorrow.

“He’s in very good condition so we will see how the game is going. He will be playing whether that’s a big or small part we will see.”

Smith has revealed that the nature of the injury has meant that it has been a quicker timeframe than first thought given that it is not a wear and tear issue.

“It was unknown with a stress-related injury. It was an impact injury and he scored at Hull FC with an isolated incident. The nature of the injury meant it healed at a different rate.”

Smith also gave an update on those stars who will return or miss out.

“(David) Fusitu’a is back from his suspension, he has had a few little niggles which have coincided with that, but him and (Tom) Briscoe are in the running for sure.

“Liam (Tindall) is ok, he has a chance to being able to play again, it’s not a serious long-term issue.”

Leeds will have the chance to solidify their play-off spot ahead of the Salford Red Devils.