CASH ED OU T
Watkins off after Rhinos call to cut skipper’s money
KALLUM WATKINS is quitting Leeds after the club asked him to take a pay cut.
The 28-year-old captain said: “This was an incredibly tough decision for me, especially as I was happy to remain at the club for the remainder of my contract.”
Watkins is in his 11th season at the Rhinos and had two more years remaining on the four-year deal he signed only last year.
But the England centre, one of the club’s highest earners, was unhappy Leeds asked him to reduce his money as they try to rebuild. The Rhinos, who sacked coach Dave Furner last month, need to overhaul a badly misfiring squad that is facing a relegation battle.
Director of Rugby Kevin Sinfield (above) said: “I would like to thank Kallum for his outstanding service to the club and, in particular, his complete professionalism throughout this process.
“Kallum is aware of our plans for the squad moving forward and the restrictions the salary cap has on our ability to develop this group of players. “Kallum is one of the greatest talents this club has produced, and I know he will be giving his absolute all for the remainder of the season.”
Watkins added: “This is an agreement that suits myself and the club. I am looking forward to a new challenge, whether in Super League or abroad, and I wish the club all the best for the years ahead.” Watkins, who has made 256 Leeds appearances since his debut in 2008, missed most of last season with an anterior cruciate ligament injury and has struggled to find his best form this year.
BEN KAVANAGH hopes a tide of respect will help Halifax pull off one of the greatest Challenge Cup upsets.
The Championship part-timers will be huge underdogs at Super League leaders St Helens in next month’s semi-finals.
Prop Kavanagh said: “Most of our boys have got jobs and have to get up at 5 or 6am. Fans love that we do this, work hard and get up the next day to go to work.”
Kavanagh, who works for Halifax’s community team, helped Fax book their last-four spot with a 20-16 win at fellow championship side Bradford.