Challenge Cup final - Leeds Rhinos flier Ash Handley keen to cross swords with Salford Red Devils' Kallum Watkins

Leeds Rhinos winger Ash Handley is delighted to see his former teammate and captain Kallum Watkins back in the game and playing well - but hopes he has an off-day on Saturday afternoon.
By Peter Smith
Published 16th Oct 2020, 18:00 BST
Ash Handley swoops over for the first of his two tries in Rhinos' semi-final win over Wigan. Picture by Bruce Rollinson.Ash Handley swoops over for the first of his two tries in Rhinos' semi-final win over Wigan. Picture by Bruce Rollinson.
Ash Handley swoops over for the first of his two tries in Rhinos' semi-final win over Wigan. Picture by Bruce Rollinson.

Watkins will line up against his former club in the Coral Challenge Cup final, just a month after joining Salford Red Devils from Gold Coast Titans, via Toronto Wolfpack.

“It’s great to see Kal back playing,” Handley said of the England centre who left Leeds midway through last season.

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“Obviously he went down to Australia, it didn’t quite work out, but I’m glad to see him back in the game and doing well.

“He is playing really well as well - I’m looking forward to challenging myself up against him.

“He is obviously an international-class player and I can’t wait to see him as well as I’ve not seen him for a while.”

Salford have another huge threat in winger Krisnan Inu. Handley warned: “He is playing really well at the minute. He’s a bit of a go-to player for them and someone we will have to handle.”

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Salford will be just as concerned over the damage Handley - current top try scorer in Betfred Super League - could do for Leeds.

“I had a good season last year as well, but it’s better now that the team’s in a better position,” Handley admitted.

“I ended the season well last year and I’m pleased I’ve been able to carry that on.”

This afternoon will be Handley’s first major final and he is relishing the occasion, even without a crowd.

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“I am really looking forward to it, I can’t wait,” he said.

I know there’ll be no fans there at Wembley, but the supporters will be right there with us watching from home.

“It’s probably going to be the biggest game of my career so far.”

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Related topics:Ash HandleyLeedsSalford Red DevilsSalford