Super League champions Leeds completed their protracted signing of New Zealand international Greg Eastwood on Thursday.

The Rhinos initially signed the former Brisbane Broncos forward for the start of this season but the player failed in his application for a UK visa.

A driving offence was thought to be behind the reason to deny the 22-year-old entry to Britain but Leeds vowed to fight the case.

The club learned on Thursday they had been successful in their appeal and the World Cup winner will now begin his three-year contract next season.

Rhinos chief executive Gary Hetherington said: "We are obviously very pleased and relieved with the news and everyone at the club is really looking forward to having Greg with us next season.

"He is a world-class player with a wealth of experience for someone so young."

Eastwood has been playing for the Bulldogs in the NRL competition since the visa decision was taken in February.

Eastwood, who will now complete the season with the Bulldogs, said: "I am just pleased to have it all cleared up and I am looking forward to joining the Rhinos next season.

"I have really enjoyed my time at the Bulldogs and hopefully we can finish the season with a Grand Final.

"I feel like I am a better player now than I was 12 months ago when I first signed for Leeds, having had the experience of playing with the Bulldogs and winning the World Cup, and hopefully I can continue to learn at the Rhinos."

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