Revealed: The interesting reason behind Kruise Leeming’s shock Leeds exit

It has finally been confirmed that former Leeds Rhinos hooker Kruise Leeming will be joining Gold Coast Titans.

The 27-year-old has 187 games of Super League experience, scoring a try in last season’s grand final.

He has signed a deal with the Queensland club which will keep him there for the rest of the season.

Titans Coach Justin Holbrook says he’s looking forward to Leeming linking up with the squad in the coming weeks.

“Kruise has runs on the board in the hooking role and has shown what he can do in the English competition for many years now,” Holbrook said.

Following this, for the first time since news of his exit was revealed, Leeming has spoken out revealing an interesting reason for his sudden departure.

He took to Instagram to say:

“I have loved playing for Leeds Rhinos and I am immensely proud to have captained the club to a Challenge Cup victory and the Grand Final last season. I have always given my absolute best for the club and that is why I am sad my time at the club has come to a premature end,” Leeming began his statement.

He then suggests that the move suits Rohan Smith’s desires, stating:

“To play at Headingley in front of the amazing support has been an honour and a privilege, I wish the team and the club every success however it is my understanding that this move suits the coaches wishes and I know this is how things go in professional sport.”

He went on to thank the likes of Gary Hetherington and former coach Richard Agar:

“I have nothing but admiration for what Gary Hetherington has done at Leeds and would like to thank him, Kevin Sinfield, Richard Agar and Jamie Jones Buchanan for making my time at the club so special.

“Look forward to meeting my new teammates and a new challenge in the NRL with the Gold Coast Titans.”