Rhinos dropped to fifth in Betfred Super League following Leigh’s win against Castleford Tigers last night (Thursday), but will be guaranteed a place in the play-offs if they come away from MKM Stadium with the points. They will have to do it without co-captain/centre Ash Handley who has a groin injury and will be missing for the first time this season.
Mikolaj Oledzki is set to return from a fractured cheekbone and fellow prop Cooper Jenkins is included in the initial 21-man squad after missing two matches with an ankle injury. Centre Max Simpson - who has played only two reserves games following a two-year layoff with knee damage - has also been drafted in. On-loan Salford Red Devils forward Joe Shorrocks is in contention for his debut. Here’s how Rhinos could line up.
7. Stand-off: Brodie Croft
More or less guaranteed his place and is in good form. Photo: Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com
8. Scrum-half: Jake Connor
The consistent ex-Hull man will be looking forward to this one. Photo: Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com
9. Prop: Mikolaj Oledzki
Has missed five games with a fractured cheekbone, but is now fit and will surely start. Photo: Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com
10. Hooker: Jarrod O'Connor
Can play other roles, but it’ll be a surprise if he’s not the starting nine. Photo: Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com
11. Prop: Keenan Palasia
Might be at 13 if Watkins is in the backs, but was so good at prop last week. Photo: Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com
12. Second-row: Morgan Gannon
Has been very good since his return from injury; could go to centre at a push, but probably won't. Photo: Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com