Leeds confirm
Peacock capture on four-year deal

Leeds Rhinos confirmed one of the worst-kept secrets in the sport on Thursday when they announced the signing of Bradford captain Jamie Peacock for 2006.

The 27-year-old Great Britain second rower and vice-captain, who rejected the offer of a new contract with the Bulls, has signed a four-year deal with the Rhinos from the start of next season.

Peacock, who spent nine years at Odsal, was born in Leeds and supported the club as a boy.

?I am very proud to have played and achieved so much with Bradford,? he said.

?However, it is a childhood dream for me to play for my home-town club and I feel that now is the right time in my career to move on and join the Rhinos.

?I am looking forward to joining Leeds for next season but will continue to give 100% for the Bulls until then.?

Peacock, who joined the Bulls club from Leeds amateur club Stanningley in 1997, made his 200th appearance for them against the Rhinos in a 42-10 victory at Headingley a fortnight ago.

Peacock, winner of the prestigious Super League Man of Steel award in 2003, played in seven major finals for the Bulls, claiming two Challenge Cup winners? medals and two Super League rings, and was in their World Club Challenge-winning teams of 2002 and 2004.

Rhinos coach Tony Smith said: ?Jamie is a player I have admired for a long time. He is a former Man of Steel and is always regarded in that category. I am looking forward to coaching him. He is a no-nonsense competitor who will add experience and competition within our squad.?

Peacock becomes Leeds? third signing for 2006, following the acquisition of Widnes hooker Shane Millard and Manly winger Scott Donald.

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Thanks to www.superleague.co.uk for this news.