Long-term absentees Harry Newman and James Bentley have been included in Rhinos’ initial squad and Smith told a press conference on Wednesday both will play.
Sam Lisone is also set to return, after missing last week’s win at St Helens through illness. Kruise Leeming (foot injury) and Justin Sangare (paternity leave) drop out, but Smith may have to omit at one and possibly two members of the team which beat the world champions.
It will be tough on whoever is dropped, but Smith has stressed a horses for courses approach which means his best 17 one week isn’t necessarily the same for the following match.
Here’s how Rhinos could line up as they bid for their first home win of 2023.
13. Loose-forward: Cameron Smith.
Rhinos look a better team with Smith as starting 13. Photo: Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com
14. Sub: Sam Lisone
Set to return from illness, replacing Justin Sangare who is on paternity leave. Photo: Tony Johnson
15. Sub: Sam Walters.
Excellent off the bench last week, has earned another go and likely to get one, especially with Leeds a prop down. Photo: Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com
16. Sub: Corey Johnson.
Jarrod O'Connor could play 80 minutes, but having a hooker on the bench would allow the starting nine to switch to loose-forward if necessary. In which case Johnson might pip James Donaldson, though he is rarely left out when fit. Photo: Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com
17. Sub: James Bentley
Smith has confirmed he'll play, the only question is whether he starts. Photo: Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com