When Rohan Smith stepped down three weeks ago, the prospect of top Australian team boss Brad Arthur taking over for what could be only a 10-game spell would have seemed far-fetched. But that’s the immediate solution Rhinos have come up with and Arthur is now beginning a short-term deal as interim-coach until the end of this season. It’s certainly an eye-catching appointment. The 50-year-old is vastly-experienced, having coached Parramatta Eels from the 2014 season until his dismissal in May.
If it doesn’t work out, neither party has really lost anything, but it may be he brings about a repaid improvement in the team’s fortunes and decides he prefers the weather in Leeds to Sydney - or Perth. In which case, his stay could be extended and Rhinos would go into next year with an insight into how the club operates and the players he has to work with.