LEEDS RHINOS are working to keep a “couple” of out-of-contract players for 2026 and beyond according to coach Brad Arthur, with Chris Hankinson and Joe Shorrocks looking likely targets.
At the Rhinos’ awards night, it was announced that Ethan Clark-Wood, Jack Smith and former Salford duo Hankinson and Shorrocks are leaving.
But Arthur said: “We had to thank those guys and show our appreciation of what they have done for our club, but there’s a couple on that list we are looking to try and keep.”
Australian Clark-Wood joined Leeds on a short-term deal in February, but after one appearance, sustained a season-ending shoulder injury in training.
His fellow outside back Jack Smith came through the Academy and while he has yet to make a first-team appearance, spent time on loan at London Broncos this year.
Both winger Hankinson and backrower Shorrocks were mid-season arrivals from troubled Salford.
Arthur added: “Chris has been very valuable for us in terms of his backfield carries.
“He has been strong. His first game was good, but he had a couple of handling errors. He has really kicked on since then, now he’s comfortable with the team and he can give us a bit of flexibility and depth, covering a few spots – centre, six or fullback.
“Joe hasn’t had many opportunities. He came in for one game and did a really good job, then had a two-week suspension. He is competitive and has a physical presence. He plays the game nice and tough.”
