Ex-Leeds Rhinos Grand Final winner finds new club after sudden Super League departure
Former Leeds Rhinos Challenge Cup and Grand Final winner Liam Sutcliffe has found a surprise new club after leaving Huddersfield Giants.
The 31-year-old, released by Giants yesterday (Thursday), today joined Betfred Championship outfit Midlands Hurricanes on a deal until the end of this season. Sutcliffe came through Rhinos’ system and featured in their 2014 and 2020 Wembley victories, as well as the Old Trafford success nine years ago, but moved to Hull FC in 2023. His last appearance was in the 2022 Grand Final.
After signing for Huddersfield at the start of last term on a three-year deal he was restricted to just five appearances in 2025 and didn’t feature at all this season because of a hamstring problem, though he made a comeback on loan for Halifax Panthers on loan last week.
Sutcliffe said: “I’m really excited to get started - I’ve heard nothing but great things about Midlands and speaking to Mark [Dunning, Hurricanes’ coach] made my decision to sign for the club a lot easier. I can’t wait to get going for the remainder of the year and help the Canes push for a place in the Championship play-offs.”
Announcing the utility-player’s departure, Giants director of rugby Andy Kelly said: “Liam Sutcliffe leaves to seek other opportunities within the game. Liam also has a vision of his life outside of and after rugby league.
“His time here has been blighted by injury and we have never truly seen what he would’ve brought to the club if injury-free. It has to be said Liam has always acted with the highest levels of integrity and professionalism when trying to reach full fitness and take his place in the team. Hopefully as he moves away from the club he will find consistency in his time on the field. We wish him well for the future.”