The sides both picked up a long-term injury during a Betfred Challenge Cup defeat last weekend. Wigan also have a doubt over full-back Jai Field, but he has been named in their initial squad along with winger Abbas Miski following a two-game layoff.
Scrum-half Matt Frawley is back in contention for Leeds after concussion and prop Tom Holroyd is available following a two-match suspension, but two of their top-20 squad numbers remain on the casualty list, alongside several fringe players. Here’s who is definitely ruled out and when they could be back on the field.
7. Brad O’Neill (Wigan)
The hooker is getting towards the end of his recovery from an anterior cruciate ligament injury sustained last year. He could be back next month. Photo: Alex Whitehead/SWpix.com
8. Max Simpson
The centre had hoped to be back on the field this month, for the first time since an anterior cruciate ligament tear in January, 2023, but a separate hamstring injury in training has ruled him out until at least next month. Photo: Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com
9. Maika Sivo
Leeds’ star wing signing suffered an anterior cruciate ligament injury during Ash Handley’s testimonial game against Wigan on January 26 and won’t play a competitive match this year. Photo: Tony Johnson
10. Cameron Smith (Rhinos)
Leeds’ loose-forward and co-captain has had an operation on an ankle injury and will be sidelined for another couple of months. Photo: Steve Riding