Leeds Rhinos rookie Sam Walters is aiming to hit double figures for first-team appearances this season as he bids to prove his worth to head coach Rohan Smith. The 6ft 7in second-rower was sidelined for the opening months of the campaign after sustaining a frustrating shoulder injury in pre-season.
But, having recently returned to full fitness, Walters featured in Smith’s first game in charge at Salford Red Devils last month and again in last Friday’s defeat at Huddersfield Giants. Despite making just two Super League appearances in 2022, the towering forward is aiming to establish himself as a first-team regular in the second half of the season as the Rhinos chase a play-off spot.
Walters, 21, told Rugby League Live: “There are still a good chunk of games for me to get my teeth into this season. I’ve played two Super League games for Leeds this year, both under Rohan, and been 18th man a couple of times as well.
