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.
13. Second-row: James McDonnell
Rhinos are low on second-rowers, particularly with James Bentley rested and the ex-Wigan man is a growing influence in their pack. Photo: Tony Johnson
14. Loose-forward: Cameron Smith
Though Tom Nicholson-Watton could slot in there, the co-captain is Leeds’ only experienced 13 and likely to start. Photo: Tony Johnson
15. Sub: Jack Sinfield
Could cover hooker as well as in the halves and is a goal kicker, so likely to get lengthy game time. Photo: Tony Johnson
16. Sub: Alfie Edgell
Arthur has confirmed the full-back/winger will make his return from a broken jaw off the bench. Photo: Tony Johnson
17. Sub: Cooper Jenkins
Took an early head knock in Rhinos’ final pre-season match, so the new signing will want some minute under his belt. Photo: Tony Johnson
18. Sub: Sam Lisone
The big prop is a candidate to be rested - as a kindness to Wests, if nothing else - but Arthur may want him to get some minutes under his belt before the league season begins next week. Photo: Tony Johnson