Rugby league pundit Terry O’Connor believes Leeds Rhinos will benefit from the fierce competition at hooker between his son Jarrod, Kruise Leeming and Corey Johnson this season. After Rohan Smith arrived at Headingley last May, O’Connor junior gradually emerged as an increasingly important figure in the Rhinos’ side.
The 21-year-old was picked to start at hooker in the two play-off victories away to Catalans Dragons and Wigan Warriors and again in the Grand Final against St Helens. Leeming, who captained Leeds last term, came off the bench in all three games but recently spoke of his determination to prove his class again in 2023 and earn a place in the next England squad after being snubbed for the World Cup.
With Johnson also vying for contention and promising youngster Bailey Aldridge having featuring in the recent friendly against Bradford Bulls, Smith has plenty of options in the game’s most pivotal position. Ex-Wigan prop O’Connor told Leeds Live: “Jarrod just needs to keep performing, but the good thing is that he’s got an England nine there in Kruise Leeming, plus Corey Johnson competing for a spot and young Bailey Aldridge pushing through the ranks.
