Wakefield Trinity Sign Cameron Smith from Leeds Rhinos

Key Points

• Wakefield Trinity have secured a deal to sign Leeds Rhinos forward Cameron Smith, as exclusively revealed by Love Rugby League.
• Smith, aged 27, is in his testimonial year with boyhood club Leeds Rhinos and is off-contract at the end of 2026.
• The move is set for the 2027 season, with Wakefield tabling a multi-year contract prompted by head coach Daryl Powell, a big fan of the loose forward.
• Smith debuted for Leeds Rhinos in 2016, making 168 appearances for the club, barring short loan spells at Bradford Bulls and Featherstone Rovers.
• He was named captain in 2023 and held the number 13 jersey for three seasons.
• Ahead of the new season, Smith lost both the captaincy and his number 13 position at Headingley.
• Smith has agreed to the deal once his current contract expires.

Wakefield (The Leeds Times) January 26, 2026 – Wakefield Trinity have secured a significant coup by signing Leeds Rhinos forward Cameron Smith ahead of the 2027 rugby league season, Love Rugby League can reveal. The 27-year-old loose forward, enjoying his testimonial year with his boyhood club, is off-contract at the end of 2026 and has agreed to a multi-year deal with Wakefield.​

Who is Cameron Smith and Why is He Moving?

Cameron Smith, a product of the Leeds Rhinos academy, made his debut for the club in 2016. As reported by Love Rugby League, barring short loan spells at Bradford Bulls and Featherstone Rovers, he has dedicated his entire professional career to Headingley, accumulating 168 appearances.​

He rose to prominence as a key loose forward, earning the captaincy in 2023. According to the same report, Smith held the coveted number 13 jersey for three consecutive seasons, underscoring his leadership and on-field impact.​

However, his time at Leeds is drawing to a close. Love Rugby League details that ahead of the new season, Smith lost both the number 13 jersey and the captaincy, signalling a shift in the club’s hierarchy.​

What Role Did Daryl Powell Play in the Transfer?

Daryl Powell, Wakefield Trinity’s head coach, emerges as the driving force behind the transfer. Love Rugby League states that Powell is a “big fan” of Smith and has prompted the club to table a multi-year contract offer.​

This admiration from Powell, who has a proven track record in player development, positions Smith as a cornerstone for Wakefield’s ambitions. The agreement ensures Smith’s services from 2027, aligning with Powell’s vision for the squad.​

No further statements from Powell were available in the initial reporting, but his influence underscores the strategic intent behind securing a player of Smith’s calibre.

How Does Smith’s Career at Leeds Rhinos Stack Up?

Smith’s loyalty to Leeds Rhinos is evident in his long tenure. Debuting at age 17 in 2016, he quickly became a mainstay, as noted by Love Rugby League.​

His 168 appearances highlight consistency and resilience. The short loans to Bradford Bulls and Featherstone Rovers provided valuable experience without derailing his Rhinos commitment.​

Named captain in 2023, Smith led the team during a transitional period. Yet, recent changes—losing the armband and his traditional jersey—prompted this off-contract move.​

What Does This Mean for Wakefield Trinity’s 2027 Season?

Wakefield Trinity’s proactive approach positions them strongly for 2027. Securing Smith on a multi-year deal signals ambition, especially with Powell’s endorsement.​

As a loose forward, Smith brings physicality, leadership, and proven Super League experience. His arrival could bolster Wakefield’s pack, crucial in a competitive landscape.​

The deal’s timing, revealed exclusively by Love Rugby League, allows Wakefield to plan meticulously ahead of the season.​

Why Did Leeds Rhinos Lose Their Star Forward?

Leeds Rhinos’ decisions appear tactical. Love Rugby League reports that Smith was stripped of the number 13 jersey he held for three seasons and the captaincy ahead of the new campaign.​

These changes suggest a squad refresh at Headingley. Despite his testimonial year honouring his service, the club opted not to extend his contract beyond 2026.​

Smith’s boyhood connection made the departure poignant, but off-contract status opened doors for rivals like Wakefield.

When Will the Transfer Take Effect?

The transfer is timed precisely with Smith’s contract expiry. Love Rugby League confirms he has agreed to join Wakefield once his Headingley deal ends at the close of 2026.​

This sets his Trinity debut for the 2027 season. The multi-year nature ensures long-term stability for the signing.​

No interim arrangements, such as loans, were mentioned in the reporting.

Where Does Smith Fit in Rugby League’s Bigger Picture?

This move exemplifies Super League’s fluidity, particularly for off-contract stars. Cameron Smith, at 27, is entering his prime, making him a hot prospect.​

Wakefield’s pursuit reflects Daryl Powell’s strategy to build a competitive forward line. For Leeds, it marks the end of an era for a homegrown talent.​

Rugby league fans will watch how Smith adapts post-testimonial, potentially reigniting his career trajectory.

Has There Been Any Official Response?

As of the Love Rugby League exclusive, no official statements from Leeds Rhinos, Wakefield Trinity, or Cameron Smith himself were quoted beyond the deal confirmation.​

Daryl Powell’s fandom was highlighted, but direct comments remain pending. The story’s revelation suggests negotiations were closely guarded.​

Further updates may emerge as clubs formalise announcements.

What Challenges Lie Ahead for Smith at Wakefield?

Transitioning clubs, especially from a boyhood team, poses hurdles. Smith’s experience—168 games, captaincy—equips him well, but adapting to Powell’s system will be key.​

Losing his established role at Leeds could motivate a fresh start. At 27, he has years to cement legacy at Trinity.​

Wakefield’s ambitions hinge on integrating high-profile signings like Smith seamlessly.

How Does This Impact Leeds Rhinos’ Squad Planning?

Leeds face a void in the loose forward position. Recent changes signal a youth infusion or alternative recruits.​

Smith’s departure, post-testimonial, closes a chapter. The club must now stabilise leadership after stripping his captaincy.​

Off-contract dynamics exposed vulnerabilities in retaining core players.

Background on Daryl Powell’s Influence at Wakefield

Daryl Powell’s coaching acumen is central. His fandom for Smith prompted the bid, per Love Rugby League.​

Powell’s track record suggests shrewd recruitment. This deal reinforces his authority in squad building.​

Cameron Smith’s Loan Spells: What Did They Achieve?

Short stints at Bradford Bulls and Featherstone Rovers honed Smith’s skills early. These experiences, as detailed by Love Rugby League, complemented his Rhinos development.​

They provided dual-registration exposure without long-term absence.

Testimonial Year’s Significance

2026 marks Smith’s testimonial with Leeds, honouring his service. Yet, it coincides with his exit, blending celebration and closure.​

Testimonials often precede big moves for off-contract players.

Multi-Year Contract Details

The deal’s multi-year structure offers security. Love Rugby League notes Smith’s agreement post-expiry.​

Financials remain undisclosed, typical in early rugby league transfers.

Super League Transfer Window Context

With 2026 endings approaching, clubs like Wakefield strike early. This positions them ahead for 2027 retention battles.​

Smith’s availability exemplifies market opportunism.