CAMERON SMITH has insisted that Ash Handley is the ‘right man’ to take Leeds Rhinos forward after losing the captaincy to his teammate.
Smith endured a difficult 2025 Super League season, playing just 12 games as injury took over his campaign.
To make matters worse, the loose-forward then saw head coach Brad Arthur award the captaincy to Ash Handley for the 2026 season.
However, Smith believes that his time spent on the sidelines meant he couldn’t help the Rhinos side as much as he would have liked and has backed Handley to take the Rhinos forward.
“The captaincy is something I can’t control. I missed a lot of last season and I couldn’t contribute to the team because I was on the sidelines for the majority of the year,” Smith told League Express.
“Ash is definitely the right man to take this club forward. He has my ultimate support and there is a ton of leaders and experience in this team.
“We are all behind him and we are all backing him.”
Smith also lost the number 13 shirt to Keenan Palasia, making it a double whammy for the 27-year-old moving into 2026.
However, again Smith is more than comfortable with the decision.
“I’m not really bothered, it’s a number at the end of the day and on the basis of last year I’m just grateful to be playing again.
“In my head, if I could run out on my testimonial game I would be extremely grateful so what it’s come down to.
“I’m just excited to be back playing consistent rugby.”