English Test star and Leeds Rhinos captain Kallum Watkins has agreed to join the Gold Coast Titans until the end of 2021.
The 28-year-old centre forward is the latest English star to head to the NRL, and will bring a wealth of experience to the Titans.
Watkins played for the Rhinos for the last time on Saturday morning (Australian time) against the Wigan Warriors, before being given an immediate release to head to the Gold Coast.
The Titans will work together with the National Rugby League to expedite the usual visa process for overseas players, and anticipate Watkins joining the club before June 30.
Watkins has played 25 Tests for England and over 250 games for the Rhinos in Super League, scoring in excess of 100 tries. He is a three-time premiership winner with the Rhinos, as well as a two-time Challenge Cup champion.
Titans Head of Performance and Culture Mal Meninga said the signing of Watkins was an exciting coup for the Gold Coast.
“Kallum is an exceptional talent,” Meninga said. “I have had to coach against him with the Kangaroos, and he is a very dangerous player.
“Importantly for the Titans however, he is also a very experienced player and a terrific leader. As captain of the Rhinos, he has shown the leadership qualities that will be a tremendous asset for the Titans.
“After the signing of Tanah Boyd, we have made a statement about the future of the Titans. Now with Kallum, we are showing that we are also investing in immediate success, and that this club is capable of attracting the best talent in the game, from right around the world.”
Picture credit: Sky Sports UK
