There has been a real shock rumour tonight.
Rugby League Live have reported that Leeds Rhinos are willing to allow former captain and Challenge Cup winner Kruise Leeming to leave the club.
Leeming has worn the number nine shirt at Leeds since 2020 and has made 65 appearances for the Rhinos during a time in which he forced his way into the England setup having been named in the 2021 Super League Dream Team.
An injury last year saw him miss out on the World Cup with Jarrod O’Connor replacing him as the club’s starting nine which was a trend that went all the way to the Grand Final and has been assumed again recently.
This is perhaps why Leeming is interested in an exit to ensure more game time.
Leeming has again been left out of the side tonight after recovering from a foot injury sustained against St Helens.
Speaking to Jenna Brooks on Sky Sports tonight, Rohan Smith addressed the rumours with some interesting comments:
“I’ve left all that stuff with Gary this week, we have had a short turnaround, all my focus is on Castleford.”
This would suggest that the rumours are true.
Smith was speaking ahead of Leeds Rhinos’ clash with Castleford Tigers.
On the game, Smith said: “Neither of us have had a win this week, we can only win tonight.”
“I think form is temporary and class is permanent. They’re the most experienced team in Super League.”