The Kangaroos are in the city ahead of Saturday’s third and final ABK Beer Ashes Test against England at AMT Headingley. It is the first time the ground has staged an Ashes clash since 1982, but the Aussies played a World Cup tie there against Fiji three years ago.
Leeds’ Aussie connections go back more than a century and have remained as strong as ever during the Super League era. Ahead of the this weekend’s sold-out international, here’s the Yorkshire Evening Post’s Dream Team of Australians who have played for Rhinos during the summer era, plus our choice as coach.
1. Australians at Headingley
Here's our pick of the best 17 Aussies to play for Leeds Rhinos in the Super League era. Photo: Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com
2. Full-back: Brent Webb (2007-12)
Yes, he played for New Zealand, but Webb was born and raised in Queensland. He won three Grand Finals during his Rhinos career and was known by fans as Superman. Photo: Steve Riding
3. Wing: Scott Donald (2006-10)
Scored one of the great Old Trafford tries in 2007, touched down 77 times in 131 Super League appearances and was a three-time Grand Final winner. Photo: Steve Riding
4. Centre: Joel Moon (2003-18)
A natural rugby league player, was a treble winner in 2015 and Super League champion again two years later. Photo: Jonathan Gawthorpe
5. Centre: Tonie Carroll (2001-2)
Didn't win anything with Leeds, but was almost unstoppable during his debut campaign when he scored 23 tries in 28 games. Photo: Steve Riding
6. Wing: Brad Godden (1998-99)
Okay, so he was a centre really, but it's either him or Joe Vickery. Scored one of Rhinos' most memorable Super League tries at Wigan in 1998 and was a Challenge Cup winner the following year. Photo: Steve Riding