Rhinos bolster squad with Shorrocks loan signing

Leeds Rhinos have bolstered their forward pack with the signing of Joe Shorrocks, 25, from Salford Red Devils on loan for the remainder of the season.

Shorrocks, who has made 17 appearances so far this season for the Red Devils, will add to the Rhinos forward pack and can play in the second row, loose forward or at hooker. Originally from the Wigan Academy set up, Shorrocks joined Salford last season and has made 44 appearances for the club, scoring two tries.

He made his Super League debut with Wigan back in 2019. He made 73 appearances for Wigan before leaving the club in 2023, scoring three tries. He also had brief loan spells at London Skolars and Leigh during his career.  During his time at Wigan, he also played at centre and in the half backs.

Leeds Rhinos Sporting Director Ian Blease added, “We are pleased to have been able to add Joe to our squad for the remainder of the season. With injuries to Cameron Smith, Tom Holroyd, Tom Nicholson-Watton, Cooper Jenkins and Mikolaj Oledzki, it was a chance to add a senior, experienced player to our group.

“I thought our young players Presley Cassell and Ben Littlewood did a good job on Saturday in the win at Castleford and Joe will add competition for places in the side and add quality to our ability to train and prepare for five vital games coming up before the play offs, starting this Thursday against Hull KR at AMT Headingley.”

Shorrocks added, “I am delighted to be able to get the deal over the line and finally be in with all the boys. I had some positive meetings this morning with the coaches and I know what they want from me and I've said to them what I can offer to the squad.

“It's nice to see Kallum and Chris after not seeing them for a few weeks or months, and myself and James McDonnell came through the scholarship and Academy at Wigan, so it’s nice to be back playing with them all.

“As soon as I signed the deal, it felt like a weight had been lifted off my shoulders as it meant not having to worry about anything but rugby now. We have got a massive game against Hull KR this week. Obviously, they are flying high at the top of league now and we're challenging for the top two.

“A big part of my game is my effort areas and working hard off the ball. I like ball playing through the middle and can play at loose forward too. But I’m happy to play my part in adding to the team in any way I can.

“Brad has given me quite a bit of information this morning on what he expects and what he wants from the team. I am definitely looking forward to working with him here.  The loan move gives me a chance to put myself in the shop window for next season. I have not played for a few weeks because of a tough situation, so I can’t wait to get started,” added Shorrocks.