Leeds fielded a total of 22 players when they beat Wakefield Trinity 41-22 on Boxing Day, but 13 members of the full-time squad were unavailable and two who did feature picked up knocks. Coach Rohan Smith has confirmed a young team will visit Bradford Bulls for Rhinos’ second warm-up match on Sunday, January 28 and an academy/reserve lineup will be on duty at Hunslet the following Friday.
Injuries-permitting, Smith plans to give a run out to his first-choice side in James Donaldson’s testimonial against Super League round two opponents Hull KR at AMT Headingley on Sunday, February 4, 12 days before the competition opener at home to Salford Red Devils. Here’s who missed the Boxing Day derby and why, plus when they could be back in action.
13. James Donaldson
The forward had minor knee surgery in the off-season, but hopes to play in at least one pre-season match. Photo: Leeds Rhinos
14. Toby Warren.
The former York second-rower was in a protective boot at training last week. Photo: Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com
15. Max Simpson
The 19-year-old centre missed the whole 2023 campaign with an anterior cruciate ligament injury, but is expected to feature at least once in pre-season. Photo: Leeds Rhinos/Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust