Rhinos suffer Eastwood blow

Super League champions Leeds Rhinos have suffered a major injury blow with the loss of New Zealand international Greg Eastwood for at least 10 weeks with a wrist fracture.

The former Brisbane Broncos forward, who was a member of the the Kiwis' World Cup-winning team in 2008, sustained the injury in the Rhinos' win over Harlequins last week.

Leeds head physiotherapist Meirion Jones said: "Greg Eastwood has seen a specialist and investigations have revealed an undisplaced fracture of his wrist."

The Rhinos say Eastwood will be sidelined for between 10 and 12 weeks, which will rule him out of their mouthwatering Challenge Cup fourth-round tie against Hull on April 17.

Leeds coach Brian McClennan said: "We are all disappointed for Greg, especially as he has settled really well into our squad since his arrival.

"Every team will suffer injuries over the course of a season and we have every confidence in our squad to deal with the challenges we face."

Eastwood joined up with Leeds on a three-year contract in December, 12 months later than scheduled after being hit by visa difficulties, and has played in all six matches so far, including the World Club Challenge defeat to Melbourne Storm last month.

Leeds have also lost second-rower Carl Ablett for up to 10 weeks with an ankle injury sustained in their opening home game against Castleford.