Hull FC handed major double boost

Tony Smith has named his 21-man squad for Saturday’s Betfred Super League Round Six clash between Hull FC and the Leigh Leopards.

The newly promoted Leopards travel to the MKM Stadium for the first time in six years this weekend, with the Black & Whites aiming to return to winning ways after a promising performance last time out against St Helens.

Smith has made two changes to the side that was named ahead of FC’s trip to the Totally Wicked Stadium, with Hull boosted by the return of centre duo Carlos Tuimavave and Liam Sutcliffe.

The pair replace Jordan Lane, who drops out with a knock, and Harvey Barron.

Ben McNamara and Jake Trueman remain unavailable through injury, while Connor Wynne, Denive Balmforth, Matty Laidlaw and Nick Staveley continue their loan spells at dual-registration partners Newcastle Thunder.

The Black and Whites have been rolling with Josh Griffin and Cam Scott at centre in recent weeks.

Both have had excellent starts to the season though the plan was initially for Griffin to complete his transition to the backrow.

Liam Sutcliffe started the season in fine form and scored against former club Leeds Rhinos in Round Two.

Meanwhile, Carlos Tuimavave has missed the entire season thus far despite being awarded the captaincy ahead of the new campaign.