Full-back Lachie Miller and winger Ryan Hall have been left out of Leeds’ initial squad, joining centre Ash Handley, scrum-half Jake Connor and outside-backs Alfie Edgell and Ethan Clark-Wood on the casualty list. That leaves Rhinos without a specialist full-back in their 21-man squad.
Hooker Andy Ackers - who was 18th man for last week’s home loss to Catalans Dragons - is another absentee, but coach Brad Arthur has a near full-strength pack to select from, the exception being loose-forward Cameron Smith. With Tom Nicholson-Watton available after injury and Ben Littlewood and Joe Shorrocks also in the 21, Arthur has the option of resting some of his first-choice forwards ahead of next weekend’s elimination play-off. Here’s how Rhinos could line up.
1. Leeds Rhinos predicted team v Wigan Warriors
Here's how Rhinos could line up. Photo: Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com
2. Full-back: Chris Hankinson
There isn’t a specialist full-back in the 21, but Hankinson filled in there when Lachie Miller was given a breather midway through last month’s derby at Castleford Tigers Photo: Jonathan Gawthorpe
3. Wing: Riley Lumb
Looks set for a recall three months after his most recent appearance; could also be an option at full-back. Photo: Steve Riding
4. Centre: Harry Newman
In good form and this is an opportunity to showcase his England credentials. Photo: Jonathan Gawthorpe
5. Centre: Max Simpson
Got through 80 minutes last week, for the first time in more than three years and deserves to keep his place. Photo: Peter Smith
6. Wing: Ned McCormack
Will presumably be recalled for his second appearance of 2025, but it could be out of position on a wing, or possibly full-back. Photo: Jonathan Gawthorpe