Rhinos and Cowboys to pay tribute to their former coach Murray

Former Leeds Rhinos Coach Graham Murray and Iestyn Harris, with the Silk Cut Challenge Cup in 1999.

The man of the match will be awarded the Graham Murray Medal in memory of the popular team boss who died in 2013, aged 58, after coaching both clubs to a Grand Final appearance.

Murray was Rhinos coach in 1998 and 1999. He led them to second spot in the table and the inaugural Super League Grand Final in his first season and was in charge when they won the Challenge Cup the following year.

He went on to coach last season’s NRL Champions North Queensland for six years - guiding them to the 2005 NRL Grand Final - and is fondly remembered at both clubs.

Rhinos Chief Executive Gary Hetherington said: “This is a fitting tribute to Graham Murray, who was such a popular coach at both clubs.

“His wife Amanda will be over from Brisbane for the game to present the medal to the man of the match, which will be judged by the assembled press.”

Amanda and daughter Cara will be guest of honours at the game in February. Amanda said: “I am delighted to have accepted the invitation from Gary Hetherington to attend the World Club Challenge between two sides that meant so much to Graham.

“It will be such a thrill for myself and my daughter Cara to be at the game and share this special occasion and we are thankful that Graham will be honoured and remembered in this way.”