RL Today: Leeds set sights on Castleford winger & Lachlan Coote on Smith’s departure

Josh McAllister
Derrell Olpherts Castleford Tigers.jpg

Leeds in discussions with Castleford winger

Rohan Smith’s Leeds Rhinos have held talks with Castleford Tigers winger Derrell Olpherts about a potential move for 2023. (Examiner Live)

The 30-year-old remains off-contract beyond the current season.

Lachlan Coote on Smith’s departure

Hull KR full-back Lachlan Coote has reacted to the departure of head coach Tony Smith.

Castleford to be without skipper for Magic Weekend

Castleford Tigers will be without captain Paul McShane for their clash against Leeds at Newcastle’s Magic Weekend.

The hooker received a one-match ban for a Grade B Dangerous Throw. Team-mate Nathan Massey also received a one-match suspension.

Controversy in amateur game

Ashton Bears North West Men’s team were knocked out of the cup over the weekend in the semi-finals.

However, the club don’t appear to be happy with the players they faced at Wigan St Judes. The opposition reportedly played seven first-team players from their NCL side to feature in the cup eight divisions below.

Tonga boss backs end-of-season international calendar

Tonga head coach Kristian Woolf backs the idea of an end-of-season international calendar.

Woolf told Love Rugby League: “I really like the sound of what Andrew Abdo [NRL CEO] said in terms of wanting to make a window at the end of the year that’s dedicated to international footy. 

“If we’re going to grow our sport, international footy is a big part of that.”

Hull still searching for Josh Reynolds replacement

Chairman Adam Pearson says that Hull are still looking to bring in an immediate replacement for the departed Josh Reynolds. (Hull Daily Mail)

Brett Hodgson recently confirmed his interest in Newcastle Knights youngster Tex Hoy.

Birthdays

Former Newcastle Knights, Manly Sea Eagles, London Broncos and Huddersfield forward Chris Bailey turns 40 today (July 5).

Also celebrating; 12-time Scotland international Lee Paterson (41), ex-dual international Chris Bridge (38), Warrington forward Matt Davis (26) and Wire youngster Ellis Longstaff (20).

Trivia

Brandon Moore made his 150th Halifax appearance over the weekend.