Leeds Rhinos could become short kick-off specialists in 2023 as part of Rohan Smith's evolving philosophy ahead of his first full season in charge. The Australian has admitted his side may adopt contested restarts on a regular basis next year after testing the waters in recent games.
The Rhinos regularly attempted short kick-offs in the exhibition match against New Zealand and did the same in the Boxing Day hit-out against Wakefield Trinity, retrieving the ball back on several occasions across both games.
Smith has had a full pre-season to implement his own identity on the team's brand of rugby, having successfully implemented more subtle changes on the run after taking charge midway through last season. More evident changes may be on show this year, with short kick-offs having the potential to be one of the more obvious shifts in style.
