Number seven Matt Frawley has been ruled out of the Betfred Challenge Cup fourth round after suffering concussion against Catalans Dragons last Saturday, but full-back Lachie Miller could be available for the first time this season. If Miller starts, coach Brad Arthur will have to decide whether to play Jake Connor alongside stand-off Brodie Croft or use Jack Sinfield - a natural scrum-half - in that role.
With Miller having not played since last September, the coach also wants a back-up plan in case he can’t get through 80 punishing minutes. Alfie Edgell, a specialist full-back, is in Leeds’ initial 21-man squad, but if Sinfield is on the bench he could come into the halves with Connor reverting to full-back. Here’s how Rhinos might line up.
7. Stand-off: Brodie Croft
Will be better for a game under his belt following his return from concussion last week. Photo: Tony Johnson
8. Scrum-half: Jake Connor
Surely has to be in the 13 and if Lachie Miller is at full-back, this is the obvious solution. Photo: Tony Johnson
10. Hooker: Andy Ackers
Has been getting a lot of game time and will need to be at his best against Saints. Photo: Tony Johnson
11. Prop: Keenan Palasia
Will certainly be in the 13, could potentially switch to ‘loose-forward’ if Brad Arthur decides to start with an extra prop. Photo: Tony Johnson
12. Second-row: James Bentley
Tends to be in the thick of things against his former club. Photo: Tony Johnson