Castleford Tigers v Wakefield Trinity: big names return as 21-man squads named for rivals round derby
Four key players could return for Castleford Tigers in their Easter Sunday derby, while visitors Wakefield Trinity also have a pivotal player back in contention.
Captain Alex Mellor was today (Friday) included in Tigers’ initial 21-man squad for the first time since suffering a broken leg against Toulouse Olympique in February. Coach Ryan Carr yesterday said Mellor is likely to make his comeback at Wigan Warriors in two weeks’ time.
First-choice trio Liam Hood, Joe Stimson and Jack Ashworth are also recalled and Jake Thewlis is in line for his debut after joining Tigers on loan from Warrington Wolves this week. Semi Valemei suffered concussion during last week’s win against Bradford Bulls and drops out along with Jenson Windley, Ashton Golding and Jimmy Beckett, who has moved to Goole Vikings on loan.
Half-back Mason Lino could make his Trinity return following a hamstring injury. Lino, who hasn’t played since Betfred Super League round one, replaces Jayden Myers in the only change to the visitors’ squad.
Tigers’ 21 is: Zac Cini, Darnell McIntosh, Mikaele Ravalawa, Daejarn Asi, Tom Weaver, Renouf Atoni, Liam Hood, George Lawler, Jordan Lane, Alex Mellor, Joe Stimson, Brock Greacen, Jack Ashworth, Joe Westerman, Aidan Doolan, Jason Qareqare, Krystian Mapapalangi, Sam Hall, George Hirst, Tom Forber, Jake Thewlis.
Trinity’s 21 is : Max Jowitt, Oliver Pratt, Cameron Scott, Corey Hall, Tom Johnstone, Jake Trueman, Mason Lino, Mike McMeeken, Tyson Smoothy, Ky Rodwell, Seth Nikotemo, Matty Storton, Jazz Tevaga, Jay Pitts, Caleb Hamlin-Uele, Caius Faatili, Harvey Smith, Isaiah Vagana, Jack Sinfield, Josh Rourke, Tray Lolesio.