Leeds Rhinos in focus - assessing ex-Bradford Bulls and Hull KR forward James Donaldson

Having been released by Hull KR, the Cumbrian joined Rhinos on trial and impressed enough to earn a one-year contract.

Last September he penned a further two-year deal and the 28-year-old is ever-present in Rhinos’ five games this term.

Attributes:

Workhorse can be a backhanded compliment, but it is appropriate for Donaldson who may not be the flashiest of players, but has become a key component for Leeds, having made 30 appearances in his short time with the club.

All but four of those have been as a substitute and his high work rate makes him an ideal man to add energy and enthusiasm off the bench.

He is also versatile, able to play loose-forward or in the second-row, as well as filling in at prop.

Defining moment:

It seemed Donaldson’s career might be over when Hull KR told him he wouldn’t be kept on at the end of 2019.

The opportunity at Leeds came out of the blue and his performances in training and pre-season proved he still had something to offer at the top level.

Best season:

Donaldson was a key part of Rhinos’ fight against relegation last year, turning in a series of consistent displays at a time when the side was struggling.

The only year in which he has played more games was 2015 when his 27 appearances for Hull KR included the Challenge Cup final defeat by Rhinos.

Concerns:

Donaldson has suffered three anterior cruciate ligament injuries, in 2011 and 2012 with Bradford and 2017 playing for Hull KR.

Those setbacks have restricted him to 188 games in a professional career which began in 2009.

Value:

Injuries permitting, Donaldson will be in or around Rhinos’ 17 most weeks, due to his toughness, high workrate and ability to play in various roles among the forward pack.

New rules, including abolishing scrums and replacing some penalties with set restarts, will speed up the game and add to his value.

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Laura Collins