Leeds Rhinos' next opponents Hull FC sack import before he arrives: Treigh Stewart contract offer withdrawn

The Betfred Super League strugglers, who Leeds Rhinos visit on Saturday, announced Stewart’s signing last Thursday, with “immediate effect” pending a successful visa application. But this morning (Tuesday) the club released a statement cancelling the deal.

It said: “The club have been made aware of an incident of alleged domestic violence involving the player in Australia. Hull FC have therefore officially withdrawn their contract offer to the player and can confirm he will not be joining the club. The club takes a strong zero-tolerance policy on all forms of domestic violence. The club will make no further comment on the matter.”

Full-back Stewart, whose signing was announced at the same time as another Australian Jed Cartwright, had agreed an 18-month contract. He played for his previous club Brisbane Tigers against Wynnum Manly Seagulls in the Queensland Cup last weekend. Cartwright, a second-rower who is on a similar contract, is not expected to arrive in England in time to face Rhinos this week.