Rohan Smith reveals text messages with Nene MacDonald

Leeds Rhinos made a number of key signings ahead of the 2023 season.

They drafted in Sam Lisone from the NRL, Derrell Olpherts from Castleford Tigers as well as Justin Sangare from Toulouse Olympique.

The Rhinos’ biggest signing though was exciting Leigh Leopards centre Nene MacDonald who had worked under Rohan Smith in the past.

In a difficult year for the Rhinos, he impressed and was even awarded an extended contract mid way through this season.

Despite signing that contract, he could be set for an exit from the club.

This is because the centre left to Australia for the birth of his child but was expected back in time to play against Hull FC.

However, he didn’t return. Speaking this week, Rohan Smith had little to update on about the situation about his former Norths Devils player.

Smith did reveal text messages with the player whoever.

He said: “I had a few text messages exchanged a couple of weeks ago now. That was the last time I’ve had communication.

“It’s been left to Gary and Nene’s management to sort out where that goes.

“I’m not going to speculate about any scenarios there. There hasn’t been an update in the last four or five days since I was last asked that question.

“So when there is, we’ll be looking forward to a resolution to it for Nene and his young family to get the best solution and also for the club, whatever that works out to be.

“That’s just an ongoing process at the moment. He’s unavailable this week.”

The Rhinos have brought back two young forwards.

“Keighley Cougars have today learnt that Joe Gibbons and Tom Nicholson-Watton have been recalled back to Leeds Rhinos with immediate effect. Unfortunately, Leeds have hit a point where they are extremely down on available players for upcoming fixtures and Rohan Smith has had to make the tough decision to pull both players back.

“Cougars would like to thank both Joe and Tom for their excellent contributions to the club during their time here and both men leave the club with fantastic reviews from all the Rugby staff and we are excited to see them progress their rugby careers.

“We would also like to thank Leeds Rhinos and in particular, Matt Cook for helping us facilitate these loan signings during the summer.

“Both Keighley and Leeds are keen to develop this relationship which we believe is only in it’s infancy.”