Leaf re-signs for Doncaster after completing betting ban

Leaf was infamously caught in the middle of a national tabloid newspaper ‘sting’ operation which exposed that he had bet on his side to lose.

He was filmed, at a bookmakers in his home city of Hull, placing £200 on Doncaster to be beaten by Wakefield Trinity Wildcats by more than 38 points in the Challenge Cup last May.

Although he was injured at the time and did not play it still broke strict RFL rules on gambling and he was hit with the 18-month ban and fined £500 last August.

Leaf had also admitted wagering £600 on Doncaster to lose by more than 48 points against French side Toulouse in 2009.

He was sacked by Doncaster but they have now welcomed him back into the fold given his suspension has run its course.

Leaf has agreed terms with the club for the 2013 campaign when Doncaster return to the Championship following their promotion-winnnig season just gone.

The PE teacher, 28, took part in the Dons’ pre-season training walk from Scarborough to Whitby last weekend and was present at the first training session earlier this week.

Leaf has stayed in shape throughout his ban and has recently been playing rugby union with Hull Ionians.

Doncaster head coach Tony Miller said: “I’m very pleased to have Shaun back at the club and he’ll be a welcome addition to our squad.

“I’m looking forward to working with him again as he attempts to rebuild his rugby league career.”

The player still has ample time to do that and he will certainly bring vast experience and skill to the South Yorkshire club’s pursuit of further success.

Chris Hill’s remarkable rise from part-time rugby league to the international stage within the space of 12 months has been recognised by his selection as one of five personalities of the year.

The former Leigh prop, who made the 2012 Super League Dream Team in his first season with Challenge Cup winners Warrington before helping England to success in the autumn international series, has been honoured by the Gillette Rugby League Yearbook.

The other individuals judged to have made the biggest impact on the game in 2012 are England and Leeds captain Kevin Sinfield, Man of Steel Sam Tomkins, former Bradford coach Mick Potter and Catalan Dragons scrum-half Scott Dureau. The Yearbook is now in its 17th year and is firmly established as the sport’s ‘bible’.