Zane Tetevano thrilled to follow in footsteps of Kevin Sinfield with No. 13

Correspondent
Zane Tetevano in action for New Zealand

Zane Tetevano in action for New Zealand

Leeds’ new recruit Zane Tetevano said being given the number 13 shirt at the Rhinos sent shivers down his spine.

The 30-year-old prop has joined the Rhinos on a three-year contract from NRL Grand Finalists Penrith Panthers.

Tetevano says the move to Super League came “out of the blue” but jumped at the chance to follow in the footsteps of players like Sinfield, Jamie Peacock and Rob Burrow and will be thrilled to wear Sinfield’s old number 13 jersey.

He said: “When you get a phone call from Kevin Sinfield, the GOAT of Super League, it meant a lot to me and my family.

“Kev had an awesome career out of the number 13 shirt and it definitely put shivers up my spine.

“I’m never going to be a Kevin Sinfield, though, I’m going to do it my own way and I’m ready to take the challenge on.”

READ: Leeds powerhouse Zane Tetevano eyes World Cup spot with Cook Islands

Rhinos director of rugby Sinfield says the arrival of the 6ft 2in, 17st 7lb Tetevano can add the steel to the Leeds pack that has been missing since the retirement of Peacock and Kylie Leuluai in 2015.

The 30-year-old New Zealand and Cook Islands international will have his first training session with the club on Monday after completing a quarantine period in the Headingley Lodge.

Sinfield said: “I think there will be a big lift when the big man joins on Monday. He’s an absolute champion.

“Since JP retired and since Kylie went, the pack has had a different feel and he’s absolutely what we need. He will give us that steel.”

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