Thirteen Leeds Rhinos players change their squad number for 2023 season

It was reported earlier this week that Leeds Rhinos were delaying their squad number release which led many to speculate one more piece of business was to be completed.

That happened yesterday with the Rhinos finally getting their man, Nene Macdonald, who they’ve pursued for much of the off-season.

The centre arrives following a stunning 27-try season with Leigh Centurions where he helped them charge to promotion into the top flight.

As a result of this, Macdonald has been awarded the number four that’s previously been worn by greats such as Keith Senior, but was most recently worn by Liam Sutcliffe who has since joined Hull FC.

Another big change sees Richie Meyler given the one shirt with Jack Walker also leaving this season.

Big news earlier this week saw Cameron Smith agree to a long-term deal that ties him down till 2026 and as reward he will wear number 13.

Last season’s number 13 Zane Tetevano is rewarded for his successful season with the 10 jersey, famously worn by former players turned pundits Jamie Peacock and Barrie McDermott.

New signings Sam Lisone, Derrell Olpherts and Justin Sangare will wear 15, 16 and 17 respectively whilst youngsters Toby Warren (joined from from York City Knights) and Leon Ruan (arrives from Doncaster) will wear 27 and 31.

Promoting youth has been key to the Rhinos past success in Super League and they’ll hope to start another by promoting academy boys Joe Gibbons, Alfie Edgell, Riley Lumb and Jack Smith who all receive shirt numbers in the 30s.

The squad in full is:

1          Richie Myler
2          David Fusitu’a
3          Harry Newman
4          Nene Macdonald
5          Ash Handley
6          Blake Austin
7          Aidan Sezer
8          Mikolaj Oledzki
9          Kruise Leeming
10        Zane Tetevano
11        James Bentley
12        Rhyse Martin
13        Cameron Smith
14        Jarrod O’Connor
15        Sam Lisone
16        Derrell Olpherts
17        Justin Sangare
18        Tom Holroyd
19        James McDonnell
20        Morgan Gannon
21        Luke Hooley
22        Sam Walters
23        Liam Tindall
24        Luis Roberts
25        James Donaldson
26        Corey Johnson
27        Toby Warren
28        Max Simpson
29        Jack Sinfield
30        Levi Edwards
31        Leon Ruan
32        Oli Field
33        Joe Gibbons
34        Alfie Edgell
35        Riley Lumb
38        Jack Smith