Super League: Ian Kirke has switched from Leeds Rhinos to Wakefield Trinity Wildcats

Ian Kirke has become the second long-serving front-row forward to leave Leeds in under a week after joining Super League neighbours Wakefield.

The veteran prop, who turns 34 in December, has signed a 12-month deal with the Wildcats, where he will join former Leeds team-mates Ali Lauitiiti, Nick Scruton and Paul McShane.

The sudden departure of the 6ft 5in, 17st Kirke, who was released from the last year of his contract with Leeds, follows closely on the heels of that of Ryan Bailey, who joined Hull KR on a two-year deal last Friday.

There are a few familiar faces at Wakefield which will hopefully make the transition that bit easier. I have spoken to James Webster and I was impressed by his plans for the team.

Wakefield coach James Webster said: "Ian will add size and experience to our pack and will make us a better team.

"His professionalism will rub off on the youngsters and improve their performances. Our forward pack has genuine competition for places and pre-season has reflected that so far. I'm delighted to welcome him to the team."

Kirke, who turned down the chance to join the Wildcats three years ago, was in the Leeds team that lifted the Challenge Cup in August and has also won five Grand Final rings during a nine-year career with the Rhinos in which he made 214 appearances.

"I will always be grateful to the Rhinos for giving me the chance to play in Super League having been spotted at York," Kirke said.

"I have been fortunate to be involved in finals every year I have been at the club and that is something that I will remember fondly.

Familiar faces

"There are a few familiar faces at Wakefield which will hopefully make the transition that bit easier. I have spoken to James Webster and I was impressed by his plans for the team.

"It will be strange to play against Leeds next season, I have a lot of good mates at the club but I am sure I will get over that as soon as the whistle goes.

"It is good to get my future resolved quickly so that I can get a full pre-season with the Wildcats. Leeds are an ambitious club they want to kick on for the future and that means that players like Brad Singleton and Josh Walters deserve the chance to get more game time.

"The club have been honest with me about that and, whilst there was an option to stay, hopefully by moving I will get the chance to play more consistently which will benefit everyone."

The Rhinos' decision to release two of their experienced forwards and allow back-rower Chris Clarkson to join Widnes on a season-long loan suggests a plunge into the transfer market is imminent.

Their only signing for 2015 so far is Australian prop Adam Cuthbertson, who is joining them from Newcastle Knights, but they have been linked with a move for ex-Wigan and England forward Lee Mossop, who endured an injury-hit first season in the NRL in 2014 with Parramatta.

Leeds coach Brian McDermott said: "Ian Kirke has been a fantastic servant for the club and defied those doubters that said a player from the lower leagues could not succeed at the higher level. Ian has not only survived but thrived in Super League.

"He leaves with our best wishes and I am sure he will do a fantastic job for James Webster and Wakefield next season."