Coach Brad Arthur has named seven England internationals in his initial 21-man squad for the Betfred Challenge Cup third round tie against Wests Warriors at AMT Headingley. With only four of Leeds’ top-20 not in contention, three of them because of injury, Leeds will field a strong 17 against the Conference South visitors. Arthur says Mikolaj Oledzki won’t feature, but it is difficult to predict who else will be left out of the matchday side for a game Rhinos are likely to win by a landslide, whoever is picked. Though it is a potential opportunity to give a couple of rookies their first team debut, Arthur insists he isn’t handing out match jerseys on a whim. Here’s how Rhinos could line up.
7. Stand-off: Brodie Croft
The former Man of Steel could be rested, with Jack Sinfield starting, but indications are he will get some game time to work on combinations in the pivots. Photo: Tony Johnson
8. Scrum-half: Matt Frawley
Could also be rested to give Jack Sinfield a start, but if Leeds are starting with their best-available 13, Frawley is included. Photo: Tony Johnson
9. Prop: Tom Holroyd
Arthur has said Mikolaj Oledzki won't be in the 17, so it's a good opportunity for Holroyd to start as he continues his return from long-term injury. Photo: Tony Johnson
10. Hooker: Andy Ackers
The only specialist hooker in Rhinos' 21 so presumably will start, though Jack Sinfield has done some work there and is another option. Photo: Tony Johnson
11. Prop: Keenan Palasia
Still new to the club, so it’s an opportunity for more game time and a competitive debut. Photo: Tony Johnson
12. Second-row: Morgan Gannon
Set to make his competitive return after concussion kept him out of the whole 2024 campaign. Photo: Tony Johnson