Warrington Wolves, Leeds Rhinos, Hull KR and Salford Red Devils are battling for a play off spot but as the Wolves prepare for a huge game in determining their chances of making the top six as they host Super League Champions St Helens they have shocking left out George Williams.
Williams’ absence is a mystery and a huge blow ahead of such a big game that could determine their standing in the play off race especially with Salford Red Devils and Hull KR meeting on the Saturday night.
The Saints win streak has seen them move into third, level on points with Wigan Warriors and Catalans Dragons in first and second, meaning Paul Wellens’ side must pick up one more win over their rivals or overcome a points difference deficit to secure their home playoff semi-final.
As for Warrington they could have potentially sealed the playoffs with a win over Salford at the weekend but they lost in dramatic fashion, going down 24-20 in golden point thanks to a late Sam Stone try.
Warrington saw both Sam Kasiano and Jordy Crowther struggling in that game with the pair of forwards a possible doubt for this clash.
Crowther went off for a HIA, which he passed, and so he should be okay for Friday’s fixture whilst Matty Ashton was another who also passed a HIA.
As for Kasiano he didn’t return after the break which prompted concerns.
Saints’ George Delaney didn’t pass his HIA though and so he’s set to miss out which is a big blow for the youngster and Wellens’ side, whilst Konrad Hurrell could be available again after serving a one game ban.
Wellens has a welcome boost to his forwards with back-rower Curtis Sironen possibly marking his return following a reoccurrence of a hamstring injury against Salford and he is back in the 21-man squad against Warrington.
The Saints are locked in a tight three way race for the League Leaders Shield which will go right down to the final game, with Wigan Warriors and Catalans Dragons tied on league points with the Red V – but just above on points difference as we go into the final two regular season rounds of Betfred Super League 2023.
Warrington are battling to get one of the remaining play-off spots, and after their narrow Golden Point defeat to Salford on Sunday too in front of their own fans the Wolves will be highly motivated to secure a result.