Rhinos swoop for Yates

The Rhinos have handed a two-year deal to the Hawks’ former St Helens prop Andy Yates, 23, who will train full-time with them from December but will be available to play for Hunslet on a dual registration next season.

Leeds coach Brian McDermott said: “We are delighted to sign Andy and think he will be a good addition to our squad for next season.

“We have seen the value of the dual registration process in recent weeks with the form of Jimmy Keinhorst and Brad Singleton in particular and these relationships give players a route back into Super League if they have missed out first time around.”

Yates, who has made 20 appearances for the Championship club so far this season, is the first player to make the move from Hunslet to Leeds since Great Britain hooker James Lowes two decades ago.

“It is a massive opportunity for me,” Yates said. “I have been at Saints before and it is great to have another opportunity to play in Super League.

“I want to go there and prove myself and hopefully get into the first team.”