Zak Hardaker stood down by Leeds Rhinos after suspected seizure

Zak Hardaker will not make his return to Leeds this week after he was stood down for medical reasons after a suspected seizure on Tuesday afternoon. 

The Rhinos announced the signing of the 30-year-old earlier this week following his release from Wigan.

At midday on Tuesday, Hardaker was named in the Leeds squad to face Hull KR at Headingley on Friday night.

But on the same day he suffered a suspected whilst on a walk with his young son. Hardaker was helped by a paramedic on the street where he had collapsed. He was taken to Pinderfields Hospital where had a number of tests before safely being discharged.

As a result, the Rhinos have stood down Hardaker due to medical reasons. He will not play for the Rhinos this weekend.

Leeds chief executive Gary Hetherington said: “At this moment in time our only concern is Zak’s health and we will provide to him and his family with whatever support is required.

“The Rhinos medical staff are overseeing things and will be arranging a series of medical tests which will then give a clearer prognosis for his recovery.”

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Hardaker commented: “Firstly, I would like to say a huge thank you to the paramedic who came to my aid and administered first aid before the ambulance arrived. It does not bear to think about what might have been the outcome without her quick thinking.

“It is so disappointing that I will not get to play on Friday but the Rhinos have given me great support. I will make sure I complete all the tests necessary. I hope to be back on the field as soon as possible.”

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