Newcastle prop Ben Cross has quit the NRL to join English Super League club Leeds on a two-year deal.

Cross recently agreed to a new deal with the Knights for next year but the former NSW Origin representative and his manager Steve Stone approached the club last week for permission to explore opportunities in England.

After an offer came from the Rhinos for the 2011-12 seasons, the 31-year-old was granted a release.

"There has been an opportunity presented to Ben to further extend his playing career beyond 2011 which he has chosen to pursue and his request for release was granted," said Knights' strategic development manager, Keith Onslow.

"Crossy intended to finish his career in England, it is a little sooner than we had anticipated but we wish Ben and his young family all the best for the future."

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