Leeds Rhinos veteran Kallum Watkins blown away by rugby league's Vegas takeover
Leeds Rhinos veteran Kallum Watkins has won Grand Finals and played in a World Cup decider – but he has never experienced anything quite like this.
Rugby league's Las Vegas takeover is in full swing as excitement continues to build for Saturday's triple-header at Allegiant Stadium, which kicks off with Leeds' blockbuster derby against defending Super League champions Hull KR.
From the buzz of the Strip to the vibrancy of Fremont Street, rugby league’s presence has been felt in every corner of Sin City.
"I've never seen anything like it," said Watkins.
"This week shows what the sport is about. People are coming from everywhere to watch a special event on Saturday.
"It's a pleasure and a privilege to be part of it. It's a unique week and you've got to make the most of it with your team-mates.
"It's a very cool destination so you've got to keep a balance between enjoyment and focusing on the game. We're elite sportsmen, at the end of the day, and have to act like it."
While the Yorkshire rivals are here to win, there is also a responsibility to showcase Super League in the best possible light.
Watkins is embracing the pressure of producing a spectacle for a global audience.
"That's part of the reason we're here," he added.
"It's a big game and a big event. It's even bigger because it's against Hull KR. That makes it even more special.
"It's incredible what they've achieved. It's well deserved as well – they've had to earn it.
"They'll be hungry for more as well. The challenge for them is to back up what they've been doing.
"For us, it's about putting in a great performance this week and pushing on from that."