Entering the second half of the Betfred Super League season, Rhinos coach Brad Arthur would probably expect to have a number of first-choice players on the casualty list. But with hooker Andy Ackers back in contention for the first time since March, only one of his top-20 squad numbers is missing through injury - and that’s winger Maika Sivo who has been ruled out for the entire campaign.
Arthur has been rotating his forwards and that policy is likely to continue, but the way Rhinos line up in the backs and on the bench could depend on whether full-back Lachie Miller is fit enough to play after suffering a calf muscle injury against Wakefield Trinity in Rhinos’ previous game two weeks ago. Here’s a prediction of Rhinos’ starting 13 and substitutes.
7. Stand-off: Jake Connor
Will remain in the halves if Lachie Miller's fit, but could switch to full-back if not. Photo: Alex Whitehead/SWpix.com
8. Sscrum-half: Brodie Croft
When fit, an automatic name on the teamsheet. Photo: Alex Whitehead/SWpix.com
9. Prop: Mikolaj Oledzki
Brad Arthur has been rotating his forwards, but it'll be a surprise if Oledzki doesn't continue in the starting side. Photo: Alex Whitehead/SWpix.com
10. Hooker: Jarrod O'Connor
Has regularly been playing the full-80 so may be in line for a breather now Andy Ackers is fit, but shows no signns of needing one. Photo: Steve Riding
11. Prop: Keenan Palasia
Has had three different roles in the last five games, so who knows? But continuing at prop seems most likely. Photo: Alex Whitehead/SWpix.com
12. Second-row: James Bentley
Returned to the team last time out after a rest the week before. Photo: Alex Whitehead/SWpix.com