Watkins returns to Leeds Rhinos and eyes future in England setup

Local TV Sport

Leeds Rhinos have welcomed back veteran centre Zak Watkins, who rejoined the club in April after starting the season with Salford. The 34-year-old, who began his professional career with the Rhinos, returned as a result of Salford’s financial difficulties and quickly made an impact in the Betfred Super League.   His form was strong enough to earn a surprise England call-up this year, marking his first international involvement since the 2022 World Cup semi-final.

Transcript

00:00Leeds Rhinos have welcomed back veteran centre Zach Watkins,

00:05who rejoined the club in April after starting the season with Salford.

00:10He's a 34-year-old who began his professional career with the Rhinos,

00:14returned as a result of Salford's financial difficulties,

00:18and quickly made an impact in the Betfred Super League.

00:21His form was strong enough to earn a surprise England call-up this year,

00:25marking his first international involvement since 2022.

00:30Watkins featured for the full 80 minutes in England's second and third test defeats to Australia in the Ashes series.

00:38Although the Red Roses suffered a 3-0 series loss,

00:41the Rhinos veteran was pleased to be back in the international fold and described the experience as very special.

00:49He acknowledged the fine margins that separated England from their opponents

00:54and highlighted how small errors cost crucial points during the series.

00:58Despite being 34, Watkins remains committed to performing at the highest level

01:04and is focused on maintaining his fitness and form for Leeds.

01:08He is determined to continue playing at his best,

01:12keeping his options open both for the Super League and international selection.

01:16His return to Leeds has also coincided with an impressive run of performances in the Super League.

01:23His experience and composure have been vital in helping the Rhinos navigate the season,

01:28providing both on-field leadership and mentorship for younger players.

01:33He has stressed the importance of high-intensity matches, both domestically and internationally,

01:38and believes more competition opportunities mid-season would benefit the England squad.

01:46Reflecting on his time back at the Rhinos,

01:48Watkins has emphasised the value of playing consistently in a competitive environment.

01:54He hopes the remainder of the season can maintain the intensity found at Leeds,

01:59allowing both the club and himself to build momentum ahead of next year's World Cup.

02:04For Watkins, the focus remains on performance, longevity and ensuring he leaves a lasting impact at the club

02:10where his professional journey began.

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