Rhinos snare union starlet

Leeds have completed the signing of young rugby union scrum half Rory Kettlewell on a two-year deal.

Kettlewell, 18, played union for Gloucester until last season before a short spell on trial at Wigan, where he played for the Warriors’ academy side.

Ripon-born, Kettlewell has been training with the Rhinos as he looks to recover from a knee injury sustained during his time at the DW Stadium.

He said: “I am really pleased to have signed for Leeds. I have been a Leeds fan since I was six so to sign for the club is a great feeling.

“It is great to train alongside someone like Rob Burrow, he has done it all in the game in my position and everyone has been very welcoming.”

Wigan scouts have been watching Kettlewell from a young age, and at the end of his deal with Gloucester offered him a chance to switch codes.

Rhinos head coach Brian McDermott said: “Rory has been recognized by scouts as a player with outstanding potential and excelled at Wigan last season. However, there were limited opportunities for him at Wigan and at 18 Rory will help us with our progression planning for our squad in the years ahead.”