Rugby League: New boy Lauitiiti keen to make Leeds debut

Warriors reject Ali Lauitiiti is set to turn out for his new club this morning.

The Kiwi international was to make his debut for the Leeds Rhinos at Headingley against Salford.

Lauitiiti said he had been overwhelmed by the reception from fans when he and his wife arrived at Leeds Airport on Thursday.

"The hospitality shown to us by everyone has been great," he said. "I think that will make a big difference for us.

"The boys in the team have also been supportive, popping round to see us last night, so everything has started great for us."

Lauitiiti said it was an honour to follow in the footsteps of former Kiwi stars such as Dean Bell, Craig Innes, Kevin Iro, Tony Kemp, Richie Blackmore and Tonie Carroll, and he wanted to continue that legacy.

"I'm here to play my bit in that. The team is doing really well at the moment so I have to try and do my best to adapt to their style."

Lauitiiti said a major factor in his decision to join Leeds had been seeing the setup there when he was on tour with the Kiwis in 2000 and 2002.

"I spoke to Tony Kemp, who was very complimentary about the Rhinos and Leeds, but I've also taken a bit of stick from the Kiwis at Bradford!"

Lauitiiti said leaving the Warriors had been a wrench.

"They were the first team I played for and I have lots of good friends at the club, but I've got to move on in life and now I'm playing for another world-class team."

Asked about the chances of a recall to the Kiwi side for the tri-series in October and November between New Zealand, Australia and Great Britain, Lauitiiti said he wanted to focus first on establishing himself in the Leeds lineup.

"If I was to play for the Kiwis at the end of the season that would be a bonus. I've spoken to [Warriors and Kiwis coach] Daniel Anderson and he has encouraged me to just go out there and play my footie."