Versatility of Ablett is rewarded by McClennan

The hard-working second row may gain less profile than most of the champions' star-studded squad but he has played in each of their three successive Grand Final victories.

McClennan knows Ablett's true worth and has tied down the versatile Academy product until the end of 2014.

"Carl is a very athletic, skilful player," he said.

"In 2008, he covered at centre and did not complain. He's even played stand-off for us and just puts the team's needs first.

"Last year we were able to play him in his preferred second row position and he has just got better and better.

"He's still young and has the ability to improve and knock on the door for representative honours."

Ablett, 24, added: "Leeds are the team I have supported since I was young. I never wanted to join anywhere else."

The RFL have added Dewsbury-based James Child to their squad of Super League referees.

A 26-year-old trainee chartered surveyor, Child joins Phil Bentham, Steve Ganson, Richard Silverwood, Ian Smith, Ben Thaler and Frenchman Thierry Alibert on the seven-strong list.

He refereed 11 Super League matches last season and will combine his role with his main job at Leeds City Council.

Former Castleford Tigers star Jon Wells is the second Super League player to see his testimonial match fall foul of the weather.

After Huddersfield's Eorl Crabtree saw his benefit clash with Halifax postponed on Sunday, the Harlequins winger had his own cancelled yesterday.

They were supposed to face Crusaders at Rosslyn Park tomorrow but the Welsh club–- preparing for their first contest in their new guise – stated they would be unable to travel from Wrexham due to the adverse conditions.

Former Leeds Rhinos Academy and Doncaster scrum-half Luke Gale has agreed a deal that will see him stay at Harlequins until the end of 2012.

Castleford Tigers hooker Adam Milner, recently selected for England Academy's 2010 training squad, has signed a three-year contract and will join the club's senior squad full-time after he has completed his A-levels in May.