Leeds land Tonga superstar Konrad Hurrell
Leeds have signed Tonga centre Konrad Hurrell from Gold Coast Titans on a three-year contract.
The 27-year-old was part of the Tonga side that reached the World Cup semi-final last year and is currently in the Mate Ma’a squad preparing to take on Australia in Auckland on Saturday.
Hurrell has played seven seasons in the NRL after making his debut with New Zealand Warriors in 2012. He has scored 55 tries in 116 appearances.
On his move to the Rhinos, Hurrell said: “I’m looking forward to getting to Leeds and especially having the chance to work with Dave Furner again.
“I have done a lot with Dave in the Tongan camp over the last few years and he has helped me a lot. I am excited about the move and the next three years. One of my best mates is Nate Peteru and he has told me about what I can expect so I am excited about the move.
“Part of the attraction for me was the changes that Dave Furner is looking to bring in at the club. He has been looking to recruit quality players to add to the squad and it is an exciting time to be joining the club.
“When I ask people about playing in Super League they always say how enjoyable it is. I just want to play my part in the team and hopefully we can achieve success together. I have heard that the fans are crazy over in England and that is something that I am looking forward to.
“I have heard that the fans are really loud and they love the game. I can’t wait for the big games at Emerald Headingley and playing in front of those guys.”
Leeds director of rugby Kevin Sinfield is made up to have signed Hurrell for the next three years.
He said: “We are delighted to have secured a player of international class like Konrad.
“Over the years, Rhinos fans have always loved a strong running centre and Konrad certainly fits that bill. I would like to thank Gold Coast Titans for the professional manner in our dealings with Konrad that will allow him to take up this exciting opportunity with the Rhinos.
“He will prove a real strike threat for us in the centres and it is already exciting to think about Konrad and Kallum next season with our new look options at half-back pulling the strings.”