Arthur extends Rhinos stay to 2025

Brad Arthur has signed a contract keeping him at Leeds Rhinos for next season.

The former Parramatta Eels head coach was appointed until the end of the season on July 10, following the departure of Rohan Smith.

Since 50-year-old Arthur took the reins, Leeds have won two of their six matches, but one of those was a 30-4 thrashing of world champions Wigan Warriors.

Arthur joined the Rhinos following his own sacking by the Eels in May, which came despite leading them to the NRL Grand Final in 2022, the highlight of his 10 seasons in charge.

Rhinos sporting director Ian Blease told the club website, external: "In a short period, he has already made a big impact on our playing and coaching group and that will only continue over the coming months.

"His commitment to our club has been unquestionable, heading straight here as soon as the original deal was agreed to get started and leaving his family back home.

"Naturally, agreeing to stay longer is a big decision for any family. We are pleased that Brad is here for 2025 and I am sure, as he has already proven, we will continue to plan for the future beyond that when the time is right."

Arthur said: "I said I would only stay if I felt I could make a difference. It is a big decision to move to the other side of the world, especially for my family.

"I feel an initial one-year deal works well for all parties but I am sure we will continue to talk over the next 12 months and make the right decision for all of us about the future beyond that."