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Rugby League

Rhinos snap up Warriors centre

31/05/2006

Leeds Rhinos have reached agreement to sign New Zealand Warriors centre Clinton Toopi on a three-year deal.

The 26-year-old Kiwi international will leave Auckland at the end of the 2006 NRL season, ending an eight-year affiliation with the club.

Toopi has made 128 appearances for the Warriors and admitted it has been a tough decision to leave.

But the draw of England's engage Super League proved too strong and he is now looking forward to arriving at the Headingley Carnegie Stadium.

"My contract was up this year and, while I've loved playing for the Warriors, I think this is the right time for me to move to a new environment," he said.

"I considered options in the NRL but signing with Leeds was the best opportunity for me and for my family. I'm pleased to have this sorted out."

He added: "I am very excited about the prospect of going to England and joining an established club like Leeds Rhinos with so many international players already in the squad."

Leeds head coach Tony Smith commented: "I am delighted we are bringing a world class player into our organisation.

"He has shown his quality on the world stage and, having spoken with him, he is really keen to reproduce that form in Super League. I am looking forward to coaching him and having him in our squad from next season."

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