Leeds Rhinos appoint Rohan Smith as new head coach

Leeds Rhinos have appointed Rohan Smith as the club’s new head coach on a three-and-a-half-year contract.

Smith, who has signed a deal until the end of the 2025 season, succeeds Richard Agar, who stepped down from the role in late March.

Smith joins the Headingley club from Queensland Cup Champions Norths Devils, while his coaching career has also included stints at Bradford Bulls, Tonga, Sydney Roosters and Penrith Panthers

The 40-year-old is the son of former Hull FC and Bradford coach Brian Smith and the nephew of former Leeds head coach Tony Smith.

Leeds have taken just three points from their first nine Super League games this season and are just a point above bottom side Toulouse, who travel to Headingley on Friday.

Smith said: "I am excited about the opportunity and really looking forward to getting back to the UK.

"The opportunity to be a head coach in Super League is something I have always aspired to do, especially with a club with such a rich history in the game and a proud tradition of developing talent through their academy.

"As a development-minded coach, when I look back on my career, the clubs that I have enjoyed working at most are those who develop their own and I know that is part of the Rhinos way.

"One of the best things about rugby league is the relationship you build with your players and I am looking forward to reconnecting with a number of guys I have worked with previously who are now at the Rhinos.

"But also I am excited about meeting and working with everyone else as well. I love coaching and helping players, young and old, to get better.

"As a coach you want to help them in their journey in their footy and in life and I am really looking forward to getting over to Leeds and starting to work