Leeds sign Kiwi international

Leeds Rhinos have secured the signing of New Zealand international forward Zane Tetevano from NRL side Penrith Panthers on a three year deal. 

Tetevano has featured in two of the last three NRL Grand Finals including last year’s clash with Melbourne Storm for the Panthers.

He started his NRL career with Newcastle Knights, joining the club in 2008 as a teenager from Tokoroa, in New Zealand. He made his NRL debut in 2011 and played alongside former Rhino Adam Cuthbertson at the Knights. Tetevano has now played over 120 games in the NRL.

He joined Penrith last season on a two year deal from Sydney Roosters but has gained a release from the final year of his Panthers contract. He spent three seasons at the Roosters, playing in the 2018 Grand Final win as well as winning the World Club Challenge against Wigan in 2019.

Looking ahead to the move the Rhinos, Tetevano said:”I am excited to be coming to Leeds. I have been doing my research on the history of the club so I have an emotional connection with the highs and lows of being a Rhino.

“I played some of the big guys from Super League with New Zealand against Great Britain and some of those guys are absolute beasts. The Great Britain players are big men who like the physical side of the game and that is the style of play I like too so I am looking forward to the challenge.

“I would like to say a massive thank you to the Penrith Panthers and all their fans. Ivan Cleary has been a great coach for me over the last year and I have learnt a lot.”

Leeds Rhinos Head Coach Richard Agar added: “Zane has played in tremendous club sides over the last four seasons winning minor Premierships and Grand Finals. He is a current starting international.

“It has been a deal that has taken a number of weeks and I would like to thank Penrith Panthers for the professional manner they have dealt with the whole process. Our patience has been rewarded and Zane is a player who will add a massive all round contribution to our team.”