Debut: vs Featherstone Rovers (H) 9th March 1997

Rhinos Appearances: 78

Rhinos Tries: 29

Honours: Grand Final (Finalist: 1998); Challenge Cup (Winner: 1999; Finalist 2000)

Richie Blackmore formed one of the most exciting centre partnerships in Leeds history during his time at the club when he lined up alongside Brad Godden. Richie signed for the Rhinos from the Auckland Warriors in December 1996.

His first season was only the pre-cursor to 1998 when Richie was at his dominating best. He had several massive games that season which culminated with a place in history when he became the first player to score a try in the Grand Final with the opening score of the Inaugural Grand Final at Old Trafford.

The following year was wrecked by a groin injury however he was still a major part of the Rhinos route to Wembley and had a big game in the Final. He finished his time at Leeds at the end of the 2000 season after playing 78 games and scoring 29 tries.

Richie was an integral part of the New Zealand squad in the 1990’s and appeared in both the 1995 and 2000 World Cup. He made 24 appearances for New Zealand scoring 15 tries. Prior to joining Leeds he played two seasons at Auckland Warriors, and four seasons at Castleford. Whilst at the Tigers he won the Regal Trophy in 1993, the Yorkshire Cup in 1991 and was a runner up in both the Premiership and Challenge Cup Final.