Eastmond Announces Retirement

Dual code England international Kyle Eastmond, 31, has announced his retirement from playing professional rugby, confirms Leeds Rhinos.

Eastmond returned to Rugby League when he joined the Rhinos back in March on a two-year contract having spent a decade in Rugby Union with Bath, Wasps, Leicester and England.

He made his debut for the Rhinos on 15^th April against Wigan at Emerald Headingley and has played once more since then. However, he has now decided to retire from playing professional rugby as he looks ahead to the next chapter of his life.

Commenting on the decision, Leeds Rhinos Director of Rugby Kevin Sinfield said, “I think this is an incredibly brave decision by Kyle and a testament to the high standards that he sets for himself. When we originally spoke to him, we had belief in his ability and talent and that remains the case however after a year out of rugby due to the pandemic, he has found that he is unable to reach the standards he expects of himself in training and playing. He will leave the club with our best wishes for the future. The fact he had a contract for this year and next but decided to hang up his boots speaks volumes about his integrity.”

Kyle Eastmond added, “I love rugby and will always be involved in it. I’ve come to realise the passion to influence the game is no longer on the field. It is this love and respect for the game, that leads me to this decision. I would like to say thank you so much to Kevin Sinfield, Leeds Rhinos and all the fans and wish the team all the best for the rest of the season.”