Rhinos deals for forward duo

Coach delighted to keep youngsters on board

Last updated: 22nd August 2008  

Rhinos deals for forward duo

Ablett: 12-month extension

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Leeds have handed contract extensions to young forwards Luke Burgess and Carl Ablett.

Burgess, a 21-year-old prop, had been linked with a move to Odsal, where younger brother Sam, the England utility forward, plays in the first team and twins Tom and George are with the academy.

But the Rhinos youngster has signed a two-year extension to his current deal, which will keep him at Headingley until the end of the 2011 season.

"It is a new three-year deal and it is encouraging for me to be offered a new one before my old contract was up," said Burgess, who has made 19 appearances since making his debut at Castleford in March.

"It gives me confidence that the club and coaches are pleased with my progress and I am looking forward to concentrating on my rugby now and helping the team to win some silverware over the coming seasons.

"This season hasn't really sunk in yet for me. I have just been giving my all each week and all of a sudden, I have played nearly 20 games."

Terrific news

Leeds have also given a new 12-month contract to second-rower Ablett, 22, whose deal was due to run out this year.

Leeds coach Brian McClennan said: "This is terrific news for the club. To secure two of our top young rising stars is great news.

"Luke has had a great year to date in his first season in the top grade and his potential is enormous.

"The club's policy is to keep people like him on board and to progress talented young players through the ranks."

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