Kirke has scored one try in 12 appearances this season

Leeds Rhinos second row Ian Kirke has penned a new two-year deal to stay at the club.

The 28-year-old was out of contract at the end of the current season but this extension will keep him at Headingley until the end of the 2011 season.

"I am really pleased to have agreed a new contract with the club," Kirke told the Rhinos website.

"I am settled in Leeds now and I am having a fantastic time playing for the Rhinos so I did not want to leave."

The Doncaster-born forward arrived at Leeds in 2006 from York City Knights and has made 69 appearances for the club so far.

He has played in the last two Grand Final victories for Leeds and, despite missing the majority of last season through injury, has played in all but two games for Headingley outfit this season.

Kirke added: "It was a big decision for me and I had to consider my options carefully.

"I have had an incredible time here at the Rhinos since moving from York. I won a Championship with the Knights but to win two Grand Finals with Leeds is something else."

Kirke's new deal comes just a week after fellow forward Kylie Leuluai signed up for another two years at Headingley.

Head coach Brian McClennan stated: "I am delighted for Ian and the club that we have agreed a new contract.

"Ian is an integral part of our squad, which he showed last season when he returned from injury in the latter half of the season.

"Ian has already had some fantastic times with the Rhinos and I am sure there are many more to come."

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