16 February 2023 , 07:00
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Cameron Smith says another fire has been “lit” in his bid for Leeds glory - and Rhinos legend Kevin Sinfield drives him on.
The loose forward, 24, believes his side can go one better this year and win Betfred Super League. They fell at the final hurdle last term losing the Grand Final against St Helens but start a new season in tonight’s televised clash at Warrington. Smith has been promoted for the first time to the No.13 shirt made famous by the iconic Sinfield who captained Leeds to seven titles.
But he admitted: “It still doesn’t seem real yet. I've grown up as a young kid wanting to wear this specific jersey and knowing the great players who’ve worn it before me means it carries a lot of weight. I want to give the shirt justice and can't wait to pull it on on Thursday.”
Leeds started awfully last year which led to Richard Agar quitting. But new chief Rohan Smith turned things around brilliantly to get them to Old Trafford. Smith said: “For a number of us it was our first Grand Final and it lit another fire in me. I’ve had a taste of what success looks like and want to get there again and win it. There’s no reason why we can’t.”
He knows Wolves will be a challenging prospect on opening night as their under-performing hosts seek to right so many wrongs of 2022. Smith conceded: “I'm expecting a different Warrington. They've recruited really well, brought in some good experienced players and Daryl Powell is known as a great coach. There’s no doubt they’ll get back to being a good team. I’m expecting a really good test. But on the flip side, we’re also ready and excited for what’s to come.”
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Leeds are missing a raft of regulars including England prop Mikolaj Oledzki, star centre Harry Newman, PNG recruit Nene Macdonald and Grand Final winner James Bentley. Warrington, however, have lost two of their main recruits - Josh McGuire (seven game ban) and Gil Dudson (brokenhand) - for the opener.