Rawlinson formerly played for Orrell

Leeds hooker Rob Rawlinson has been ruled out for the rest of the season after undergoing a neck operation.

The surgery on the 33-year-old was successful, but the recovery time means he will miss Leeds' last six games.

Director of rugby Andy Key told BBC Radio Leeds: "It was a very serious neck operation but the consultant is very happy with the way it's gone."

"It means he will be out for the rest of the season probably and we just need to make sure he recovers well."

Rawlinson has struggled with the injury throughout the season and Leeds finally took the decision for the operation to go ahead. It leaves Leeds with three fit hookers in Andy Titterrell, Vili Ma'asi and Phil Nilsen.

"What is most important now is the well being of Rob. We have to get the rehabilitation right and that Rob comes through it fit and well over the next two months. It's certainly not a career threatening injury," explained Key.

"We are in a good position with hookers at the moment and have good strength in depth there.

"Earlier in the season that wasn't the case as we had injuries to Rob and Vili. We weren't sure how long they'd be out for and that's when we brought Andy in.

"But now we see Andy playing very well, Vili pushing him very hard and then Phil working hard and doing very well behind them too.

"What we have currently is have a fantastic team mentality and in that particular position three very good guys serious competing."

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