Rohan Smith leaves Super League Leeds after poor start

Leeds appointed Smith in April 2022 and the 43-year-old took them to the grand final later that year, losing 24-12 to St Helens at Old Trafford. 

Leeds Rhinos have agreed by mutual consent that Head Coach Rohan Smith will step down with immediate effect.— Leeds Rhinos (@leedsrhinos) June 19, 2024

But the Rhinos failed to make the play-offs for the first time in four years in 2023 and currently sit seventh in the table this term. 

Leeds welcome Leigh to Headingley on Friday and assistant coaches Chev Walker and Scott Grix will now take charge of the side as they begin their search for a new head coach. 

Smith admitted he did not want any coaching speculation surrounding Friday's game, where the Rhinos will celebrate the life of Rob Burrow who lost his battle with motor neurone's disease earlier this month. 

He told the club's official website: "I had always stated that it was a long-term project to establish a team that will be able to have sustainable success, and I believe that we have assembled a roster that can continue to push for a 2024 play-off spot, the supporters can get behind the boys and give them their support. 

"Friday will be a special night for the club and we wanted to remove the ongoing coaching speculation and distraction. Celebrating Rob's life, the great work done by the club and Kev for the MND community and playing well is the focus for Friday. 

"I believe this team can still achieve great things and I am proud of the work that the coaching team have done to develop players, especially the next generations. 

"Unfortunately, I will not be head coach to see this development continue but I look forward to watching the club's future successes and wish everyone at the club all the best for the future." 

Sporting director Ian Blease arrived at the club last Monday and stated he would not "rush" into making any decisions but defeat to lowly Hull, who had previously won only once all season, increased the pressure on Smith.