Rugby League News: Leeds Rhinos Pursue Former NRL Coach as Head Coach Replacement
The Leeds Rhinos have wasted no time in their search for a new head coach following the departure of Rohan Smith. With the team currently struggling in seventh place in the Super League, the Rhinos are said to be considering both domestic and international candidates to fill the role.
According to reports from Australia, a former NRL head coach has emerged as the clear frontrunner for the Leeds job. Brad Arthur, who has spent 11 years with the Parramatta Eels, is set to be interviewed by the Rhinos on Friday (Australian time).
Arthur’s agent, Chris Orr, revealed that the experienced coach is open to the opportunity with the “quality organization” that is the Leeds Rhinos. “Brad is a career coach and has plenty to offer any organization he joins. His experience is extremely valuable, and players love playing for him,” Orr said.
However, it seems Arthur’s preference would be to remain in Australia, and the Rhinos’ offer is not a foregone conclusion. The coach is simply willing to discuss the nature of the project at the club before making a decision.
The news of Arthur’s impending interview comes after another name linked with the Leeds job, Paul Rowley, appeared as part of Sky Sports’ coverage of the Castleford versus Hull KR game. Rowley, who has a long-standing relationship with Leeds’ Sporting Director Ian Blease, was asked about the speculation, but he remained non-committal, stating that no approach had been made.
“If Leeds Rhinos were to pick up the phone, then absolutely.”
With Salford hosting St Helens in a crucial playoff game on Sunday, all eyes will be on Leeds to see if Rowley emerges as a serious contender for the head coach role.
The Leeds Rhinos are clearly moving swiftly to find a replacement for Rohan Smith, and the potential appointment of a seasoned NRL coach like Brad Arthur could be a significant move as the team looks to turn around its fortunes in the Super League.
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