Leeds' in-form centre Zak Hardaker has agreed a five-year contract extension that will keep him at Headingley until at least the end of 2016.
The Stobart Super League champions acted to secure the long-term future of the 20-year-old after he scored 13 tries in 15 appearances so far this season to improve a career record that has seen him register a remarkable total of 54 in just 50 senior appearances for Featherstone, Leeds and England Knights.
Leeds coach Brian McDermott said: "Zak is one of the most exciting young British players in our game and we are delighted to reward his progress so far with a new contract.
"He knows he still has a long way to go in his career but he has had a fantastic start and we will continue to work hard with him so he can fulfil his potential as a world-class player."
Hardaker, who joined the Rhinos from Featherstone, became the youngest Leeds player to win a Grand Final with the final try in last October's win over St Helens and was this year named in England coach Steve McNamara's elite training squad.
"I am delighted to commit my future to the club," he said. "When I signed for Leeds two years ago, I was prepared to work hard for the next few years and earn my opportunity in the team.
"However things have had happened so fast since then. There are still a lot of things I need to work on but having a long-term contract gives me the confidence and time to reach my potential."
