Tributes have been paid to former Leeds Rhinos and Castleford Tigers forward Lee Harland whose death was reported today, aged 53.

Harland began his professional career with Leeds before moving to Halifax where he played from 1993-95. He was transferred to Tigers in 1995 - with Martin Ketteridge moving the other way in exchange - and made more than 200 appearances, later having spells with Doncaster, Halifax and finally Batley Bulldogs in 2006.

The second-rower, nicknamed Hatchet, also represented Yorkshire, Great Britain under-21s and Yorkshire. A club statement on social media said: “Castleford Tigers are saddened to learn of the passing of former player Lee Harland earlier this week at the age of 53. “England international Lee made 227 first team appearances at Wheldon Road from 1995-2004, giving his all across nine seasons with the Tigers. Our most sincere condolences go out to Lee’s family and friends at this incredibly sad time.”

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Lee Harland in action for Castleford Tigers against Wigan Warriuors in February, 2003. Picture by Shaun Flannery/SWpix.com.

placeholder image — Lee Harland in action for Castleford Tigers against Wigan Warriuors in February, 2003. Picture by Shaun Flannery/SWpix.com.

Rhinos added: "Sending our condolences to the family and friends of former [Castleford] player Lee Harland who passed away this week. Lee began his career at Leeds, making his debut in the 1992-93 season and playing eight times for the club. RIP."

A statement for Tigers’ players association said they were “saddened to hear of the passing of Lee Harland aged 53 on Monday evening”. It went on: “‘Hatchet’ was an attendee of our association’s functions and we are mourning the death of a friend, colleague and rugby league comrade.

“Lee joined Castleford from Halifax and made his debut at home to Oldham RLFC in March 1995. He went on to make 227 appearances for Castleford, scoring 26 tries and a total of 104 points. His final game was against Wakefield Trinity Wildcats in September 2004. The association would like to extend its sincere condolences to Lee's family and friends, as well as to his fellow players across the game.”

Also on social media, Gary Mercer, who played alongside Harland for Leeds, said: “I am so sad to hear of Lee’s passing. I was privileged to have played with and against Lee, it is so sad, a top player and a great competitor.”

Another ex-Rhinos teammate Graham Holroyd added: “Great lad, we were subs for Leeds in the early days when it was two subs. Rest in peace Hatch.”