Super League leaders Leeds Rhinos have signed Australian prop Adam Cuthbertson on a four-year contract.
The 29-year-old Newcastle Knight will arrive in England ahead of the 2015 season. An experienced campaigner with approaching 150 NRL games to his name, Cuthbertson has also played for Manly, Cronulla and St George.
“I am really pleased to be joining the Rhinos and excited about the challenge of joining a new competition in Super League,” he said.
“Leeds have been a top-four club for the last decade and I know I am joining a very competitive squad who have a great work ethic.”
Cuthbertson – whose father is English – will add to a pack which will be going through a transition in 2015.
Veteran Jamie Peacock has said next year will be his last while another front-row workhorse, Kylie Leuluai, is on a rolling deal.
“As an experienced NRL professional, not only will be add quality to our group but he will also help our younger players develop and realise their full potential with his knowledge from the NRL competition,” said Leeds coach Brian McDermott.
“This is a massive boost for the Rhinos and a big decision for Adam, however he has a passion to play in our competition and for Leeds.”