With the season opener just around the corner we look at how the Leeds Rhinos will go in 2021.
After five years rebuilding the team since their outstanding season winning the treble. Leeds had made a statement of intent as they competed in the Super League play-offs and bagged a Challenge Cup.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Signings
Embed from Getty ImagesZane Tetevano (Penrith Panthers), King Vuniyayawa (New Zealand Warriors).
Departures
Adam Cuthbertson (York City Knights), Rhys Evans (Bradford Bulls), Wellington Albert (Keighley Cougars), Muizz Mustapha (Hull KR, loan), Stevie Ward (retired), Ava Seumanufagai (Mounties – NSW Cup).
First Five
Huddersfield Giants (A), Wakefield Trinity (A), Castleford Tigers (H), Wigan Warriors (H), Hull Kingston Rovers (A).
WHAT TO EXPECT
Embed from Getty ImagesThe Rhinos will hope to build on their strong Super League campaign as they add New Zealand international Zane Tetevano and Fiji international King Vuniyayawa to the ranks.
Adam Cuthbertson will be a big miss out of the 2021 squad, but it’s clear that having two NRL players will take up a lot of space in their salary cap.
The Rhinos will have a few Yorkshire derbies to look forward but will have a tough crack against Huddersfield, Castleford and Wigan. If Leeds get that perfect start it will surely lift their odds as Super League contenders.
Both Tetevano and Vuniyayawa made their debuts in the Rhinos 22-16 defeat to the Giants and will look to use this experience as the two sides will go again to kick-off the season.
Being tied along with Hull FC in the betting to win the Super League at 12/1, it shows that Leeds have some way to go before they can compete with Wigan and Saints.
FEARLESS PREDICTIONS
Embed from Getty ImagesTop Tryscorer – Ash Handley
Top Pointscorer – Rhys Martin
Club Player of the Year – Luke Gale
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