Massive boost for Leeds Rhinos as young talent Cameron Smith signs long-term deal

The England Knights forward was due out of contract this autumn, but has signed a new deal keeping him at Leeds until the end of 2023.

Smith, from Castleford, has played in all Rhinos’ five games this term, scoring three tries and topping the tackle count with 212.

The 21-year-old, who made his first team debut in 2016, was regarded as one of the country’s top prospects when he joined Rhinos and is the latest young player to sign a long-term deal.

He said: “We had the likes of Kev [Sinfield], Danny [McGuire], Rob [Burrow] and JP [Jamie Peacock] - that golden decade that went on to be so successful.

“With the younger generation that’s coming through now, hopefully you’re seeing signs that we can go on and do something special with the lads who have committed to the club for long periods of time.

“I am just grateful and it’s very humbling that I am part of this group. I am grateful for the opportunity to play for such a special club and to be here for the next three years, it’s amazing.”

Smith admitted a new contract was his aim at the start of the campaign. He added: “I am absolutely buzzing.

“It is something I have had in the back of my mind for a while, knowing I was out of contract.

“I didn’t want to leave the club and I wanted to go on and progress. To cement a three-year deal means the world to me.”

Smith has played in the second-row, as back-up hooker and at stand-off, but is now establishing himself as first-choice loose-forward, despite being a substitute for the past two games.

“I was ill before the Warrington game, I hadn’t been in all week and I had no preparation whatsoever,” he revealed.

“I have been on the bench the last two games, but my role doesn’t change. At the minute I am just enjoying my rugby and hopefully people are starting to see the real side of my game and what I can do when I am given the chance and opportunity to express the skills I’ve got.

“The team is in a really good spot at the minute which is benefiting me and bringing the best out of my game. For Rich [Agar, Rhinos’ coach] to give me the opportunity to play, I am forever grateful.”

Smith feels he is now being allowed to play the style of game which suits him best.

“There’s not many ball playing 13s about nowadays,” he said. “Obviously I have been wanting to push and play like that for a number of years now.

“I have had to do it the tough way. I am not at my full potential yet, we are only five games in, but it’s promising that I’ve been able to showcase my skills.”I am enjoying my rugby and being able to have that freedom with the ball and to play - and there’s a real good feel in the team.”

Sinfield, Rhinos’ director of rugby, is “delighted” to have tied Smith to a long term contract.

“I think it is great news for us and also Super League to be keeping one of our best young players in our competition,” he said.

“Cameron worked incredibly hard during pre-season and he is really thriving under Richard Agar’s leadership.

“He has been one of number of outstanding young players in our side at the start of the season and he thoroughly deserves this new deal.”

Sinfield added: “We are developing an exciting crop of young players who have all agreed long term deals with the club.

“Alongside Cameron are Jack Walker, Harry Newman and Mikolaj Oledzki who are all in their early 20s and playing regularly in Super League.

“We want to see them grow - along with another outstanding crop of young players just below them in terms of experience - and forge the future for the Rhinos.”