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Leeds Rhinos have confirmed the signing of outside-back Derrell Olpherts from Castleford Tigers on a two year contract.

Olpherts scored 36 tries in 54 games during three seasons at Tigers, including 18 touchdowns this year.

The winger or centre will effectively replace Tom Briscoe in Rhinos’ squad and said: “It is a great time to be at this club and I am looking forward to getting stuck in,” Olpherts - who has also played for Dewsbury Rams, Newcastle Thunder and Salford Red Devils - vowed: “I am looking to elevate my game here at the Rhinos.

“I am looking forward to working under [coach] Rohan Smith, I am sure he will help me develop my game and develop me as a person as well.”

Rhinos signing Derrell Olpherts in his new colours at Headingley. Picture by Leeds Rhinos.

Of his role at Leeds, Olpherts revealed: “I didn’t really play winger until I came into Super League and I played my rugby before then as a centre or full-back.

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“I am happy to play at centre as well, I know that is something that Rohan has spoken about and I’ll be working hard to add that versatility to my game and achieve good things here.”

He added: “The squad did fantastic last year and to get to a Grand Final just shows how much effort and skill there is around the place. Hopefully I can add to the squad and help us go one step further.

Derrell Olpherts scores for Tigers against Rhinos at the Jungle last Easter. Picture by Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com.

“The back line are all exciting players. It is good to be an addition to that and be around those players, challenging myself to be as good as I can be and working with my new team mates.

“There is great competition within the group with everyone challenged to get a starting spot and that brings a lot of excitement.”

Olpherts is due to begin pre-season training next month. He said: “I will be one of the first players back in and I can’t wait.

“Obviously the senior guys got to a Grand Final last year and there are players involved in the World Cup, but I am excited to get in and get involved with the talented young players here at Leeds.

Derrell Olpherts has a reputation for scoring spectacular tries, like this one for Castleford at Hull this year. Picture by Will Palmer/SWpix.com.

“Headingley is always an exciting place to play and I am looking forward to making it my new home.”

The 30-year-old was the top player in Super League for tackle busts this year, second for carries and third in metres made.

Smith said: “We are pleased to confirm Derrell’s signing. He is a talented player who can play anywhere in the backline. He showed last season in particular he is an outstanding try scorer.”

Leeds Rhinos confirm signing of Derrell Olpherts from Castleford Tigers