Four of Leeds’ first 13 squad numbers are unavailable because of injury and one is suspended. They are also missing several fringe players, while Giants have 11 ruled out, most of them from their first-choice lineup. Their coach Luke Robinson has described the spate of fitness problems as an “epidemic”. Here’s who won’t be playing and when they might be back on the field.
7. Niall Evalds (Giants)
Signed on loan from Hull KR, Evalds broke a foot on his debut against Salford Red Devils on March 20. He will be unavailable for “three to four months”. Photo: Olly Hassell/SWpix.com
8. George King (Giants)
The front-rower suffered an ankle injury in pre-season and now has a calf muscle issue which could keep him sidelined for at least another month. Photo: Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com
9. Bill Leyland (Giants)
On loan from Hull KR, the hooker failed a head injury assessment during last week’s loss to Catalans Dragons. He could return to face Castleford Tigers next weekend if he gets through the return to play protocol. Photo: Olly Hassell/SWpix.com
10. Ben Littlewood (Rhinos)
The 20-year-old forward underwent surgery on a hamstring injury early in pre-season. He is back running, but no return date has been given. Photo: Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com
11. Tui Lolohea (Giants)
The former Leeds Rhinos full-back or stand-off picked up a calf injury against Hull KR at the end of March and could be out of action for around three months. Photo: Olly Hassell/SWpix.com
12. Ned McCormack (Rhinos)
The rookie centre hasn’t played since suffering hamstring damage in the act of scoring against Warrington last July. He has had an operation and could be sidelined for the entire season. Photo: Tony Johnson