Matt Lodge reveals why he turned down longer Super League deals for Leeds Rhinos gamble

Matt Lodge had longer-term offers on the table in Super League but opted for the most unconventional of routes.

The Australian left his pregnant partner and four children behind to fly halfway around the world for a six-game gamble on glory with Leeds Rhinos.

Beyond October, Lodge does not know what the future holds.

"I've got an open mind about it," he said following Sunday's game against York Knights.

"I've been nothing but impressed since I landed. Leeds has impressed me as a club. From the moment I walked in the door, they're exactly like an NRL club in terms of how organised they are and how they look after you.

"I had a few deals to come here for longer but I chose to take this path at Leeds. I'm someone who always wants to prove myself so have no problem taking the eight-week deal and doing it that way.

"I've got a commitment to go and have a baby at home in December. That's something I definitely can't get out of!

"I'll finish the season and go and do that. Like I said, I've been pretty impressed since I got here and definitely enjoyed today."

If Lodge's debut is anything to go by, the gamble is already looking like a good one.

The experienced prop marked his Super League bow with a try as Leeds produced the perfect response to an untimely setback against Leigh Leopards.

The 66-16 victory at the LNER Community Stadium sent the Rhinos back to the top of the table with three rounds remaining.

"I really enjoyed it," said Lodge. "It was a good result but it was more the atmosphere.

"It was good to get a run in the legs. I could feel the lungs going a little bit but I'm sure I'll be better for the run.

"I didn't know what to expect when I was coming over but everything has been first-class since I got here.

"It's a pretty handy team with good players, too. It's just about me blending in and playing my small part for the team."

Lodge has a small but vocal support team 10,000 miles away cheering his every move.

They had made one specific request for his debut – and he delivered.

"I've got four boys at home who love footy and stayed up to watch the game," added the 31-year-old.

"The club organised a little highlights package and some messages from family. They requested a try and hopefully it'll keep my eldest happy. He's pretty judgmental about my game!

"It's the longest I've been away from my kids. My partner is pregnant as well. She's looking after all four of them while I'm away but knew I was excited for the opportunity and has helped me take it.

"I'll hopefully get the job done here and then head home to see them."

Lodge's CV makes his decision all the more intriguing. He has played for six NRL clubs, including Brisbane Broncos and Sydney Roosters, yet chose to cross the world for an eight-week opportunity at Leeds.

Lodge made 15 appearances for North Queensland Cowboys this season before finally scratching his Super League itch.

"It's something I've toyed around with for the last couple of years," said Lodge.

"I wanted to come over while I can still give my best and a good account of myself; I didn't want to take the p*ss when I'm 35.

"I always thought that if I didn't do it, I'd regret it. When the opportunity came, it was tough to leave the Cowboys where I'd played most of the season but they understood I was pretty excited to come over."

That excitement is unlikely to wane during his whirlwind stay in West Yorkshire.

Leeds travel to old foes St Helens this Friday before a blockbuster Headingley clash with League Leaders' Shield rivals Wigan Warriors.

Brad Arthur's men end the regular season against Hull FC, by which time a home semi-final may already be secured.

There could hardly be a better reward for Lodge's gamble than helping Leeds lift the League Leaders' Shield before completing the job at Old Trafford.

"That's obviously part of the motivation," he said.

"I just want to earn my spot in the team. It's pretty exciting to be able to push for trophies.

"We've got a bit of work to do but that's the goal for everyone in the building and hopefully I can help them achieve it."