rlLee Smith now confirmed as moving to London Wasps RU next season.rl

[iEngland and Leeds Rhinos star Lee Smith will switch codes at the end of the Super League season after signing for rugby union side London Wasps.

The 22-year-old, who will remain with Leeds until the end of the season, has agreed a contract that will keep him at Adams Park until 2012.

Smith has scored 42 tries in 88 games since making his Leeds debut in 2005.

"It's a massive challenge, not only as a league player moving to union, but also moving to London," he said.

"Wasps are one of the biggest clubs in the Guinness Premiership and have some of the best players in England. The opportunity to train alongside players of such calibre with a coaching team of (director of rugby) Tony Hanks and (head coach) Shaun Edwards couldn't be missed.

"I have enjoyed some great success at Leeds Rhinos and Wasps were the obvious choice with their history of success in the Premiership and Europe."

Smith, who is comfortable at full-back, wing or centre, won the Harry Sunderland Trophy in last year's Grand Final for his man of the match display in Leeds' victory over St Helens and went on to play for England at the World Cup.

Hanks added

At least the press release makes clear, from both sides, that Smith will not leave until after Leeds' season has completed.

Like I said, Magners loosens the tongues that other ciders cannot reach!!

Smith had been found out in the NRL prior to his off field 'issues'. He had a good debut season and that's about it. Leuluai wouldn't get a start at halfback for a decent NRL team. Barrett was a class player - but also had tons of criticism for his performances (or lack of) at Origin level and in big games for St George (it was either Johnny Raper or Reg Gasnier who said he wasn't good enough for them). But hey, don't listen to them - just believe he's the best Aussie since Wally.

It's a shame to see a talented player to go to Union. But I guess that £££ talks.

tvoc - one word - desperation. I hope he does well actually, as it will surprise a lot of people here. My only issue is the overreaction to Barrett at Wigan (as per Lyon at Sts). Very good players? Yes. All time greats? No way.

Yes it does.

Lots of love,
Big Les & uncle Shontayne

Most of the overseas signings Wigan have made in SL are better than any other club.

WTF???? Richards, Carmont, Phelps, Leuluai, Roberts, Feka? Those are the serial losers you're talking about I assume?

'In SL'. I didn't say currently.

Define "most"...

Yet no trophies in 7 years. They've really lived up to their billing.

One was a Man of Steel and the other was shamefully denied the award due to his not playing for St Helens.

They were short term 'greats' in the British comp albeit only briefly.