New signings Lachie Miller, Matt Frawley and Andy Ackers are set to pull on a Leeds jersey for the first time in the annual Wetherby Whaler Festive Challenge. Rhinos’ 21 for the game also includes familiar faces from the established squad, along with a handful of highly-rated youngsters who have been training with the senior group.
Yorkshire Evening Post photographer Jonathan Gawthorpe was invited to a training session at Rhinos’ Kirkstall base this week. Here’s 17 images of preparations for next Tuesday’s pre-season opener.
1. Training group
Rhinos players during a training session at Kirkstall ahead of the Wetherby Whaler Festive Challenge against Wakefield Trinity on Boxing Day. Photo: Jonathan Gawthorpe
2. Harry Newman
Harry Newman - flanked by Andy Ackers and Max Simpson - is back in training with Rhinos following England duty, but won't play on Boxing Day. Photo: Jonathan Gawthorpe
3. Lachie Miller
Rhinos' new Aussie full-back Lachie Miller will make his first appearance for the club on Boxing Day. Photo: Jonathan Gawthorpe
4. Lee Kershaw
Former Wakefield Trinity winger Lee Kershaw is training with Rhinos as he searches for as new club. Photo: Jonathan Gawthorpe
5. Mikolaj Oledzki
Front-rower Mikolaj Oledzki was ruled out of Test contention this autumn because of injury. He is not yet in full training and won't play on Boxing Day. Photo: Jonathan Gawthorpe
6. Rohan Smith
Rhinos coach Rohan Smith (with hood) talks to his players at training ahead of the Boxing Day game. Photo: Jonathan Gawthorpe