Harry Newman reckons he is developing as a player and a person under Rohan Smith’s guidance as he bids to secure a World Cup spot later this year. The highly-regarded Leeds Rhinos academy graduate took centre stage during last Thursday’s stunning 42-12 win over Wigan Warriors at Headingley.
Newman scored one of Leeds’ seven tries and his scintillating display underlined the ability and athleticism which have marked him out as a special talent. Injuries and a recent suspension have stunted his progress but Newman could now be the fulcrum of the new chapter being patiently written by Smith at Headingley.
The Aussie head coach is noted for his ability to nurture young players and Newman told Rugby League Live: “I’ve found working with Rohan great so far. Since he’s come in, we’ve built quite a strong connection.
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“He’s very keen on that off-field stuff because he sees his job as developing people as well as rugby players. He’s really helped me with that and I chat to him every day.
“Since Rohan came in, we’ve been the highest points scorers in the league, which speaks for itself. Our defence is improving too – Wigan scored 60 points against Hull FC the week before but just two tries against us.
“It was a great performance and that was my favourite win during my time as a Leeds player. Wigan is always a big game and to smoke them at home like we did was huge. We’re continuing to build, so I’m sure we will push on for that play-off spot now.”
Newman, 22, has shown impressive mental fortitude to bounce back from a hamstring injury which required surgery. He then copped a two-match ban which was increased to three due to a frivolous appeal, so the Wigan game was only his fourth appearance of the season and the first game back after his suspension.
Yet he showed his desire to win with a formidable display against the Warriors and, on the evidence of that display, Newman looks a decent bet to make Shaun Wane’s World Cup squad.
He added: “Having been out for so long through injury and then getting banned wasn’t the best. But it has given me time to work on myself, which I always do. I said when I came back I’d bring the same passion and energy yet just be more disciplined.
I thought I did that against Wigan and I felt on it from the moment I work up on Thursday morning. I believed I was going to have a good game and I just wanted to give my all for the team and the fans. It was a great team effort because we were down on numbers massively and went into the game against underdogs. To come away with a win like that, having not played at home for two months, was unbelievable.
“In terms of that World Cup spot, it’s one game at a time. This week away at Catalans is a different challenge and I’m focused on that now. If I do the things I need to do then I’ll give myself a good chance come the end of the year.”
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