Leeds dismiss Ward for rule breaches

Leeds have sensationally sacked their Great Britain prop, Danny Ward, less than three weeks before the start of the Super League season.

The 25-year-old forward, a regular in the Rhinos' side in recent seasons, has had his contract cancelled for what their chief executive Gary Hetherington called "a series of club rule breaches over the last 12 months".

He said: "It's obviously disappointing. We aren't prepared to go into detail, but the breaches were considered sufficiently serious to bring about this action."

The breaches are thought to relate to Leeds' strict rules on drinking and its possible effect on match preparation. The club's coach, Tony Smith, said: "I fully support the club's decision, having been made aware of the issues with Danny."

Ward is the son of the former Leeds captain and coach David Ward. He followed him in becoming an international when he played for Great Britain against New Zealand in the 2004 Tri-Nations.