Leeds Rhinos forced into change as signing drops out of team against Bradford Bulls
Castleford Tigers v Salford Red Devils Betfred Super League 03/09/2020. Derrell Olpherts of Castleford during the Betfred Super League match between Castleford Tigers and Salford Red Devils at Emerald Headingley Stadium, Leeds, United Kingdom on 3 September 2020. Leeds Emerald Headingley Stadium West Yorkshire United Kingdom Editorial use only PUBLICATIONxNOTxINxUK , Copyright: xSimonxHallx PSI-10380-0021
Rohan Smith has named his side for Sunday’s friendly against Bradford Bulls at Headingley but has again been forced into a late change with signing from Castleford Tigers Derrell Olpherts dropping out at centre with Levi Edwards coming into the centres as he did last week when the same situation arose at Leigh Leopards.
Once again Ash Handley starts at fullback for the third game in a row hinting that Rohan Smith could use him there in Super League.
Usual fullback Richie Myler starts in the halves with Aidan Sezer and Blake Austin absent. Instead, he is joined by Morgan Gannon who for the third time features in the halves.
There is a first appearance of pre-season for Rhyse Martin at centre whilst Cameron Smith returns from elbow surgery to start at loose-forward.
James Bentley is expectantly absent whilst David Fusitu’a again misses out after being a late withdrawal against Leigh Leopards last week through illness.
He has been at the heart of discussions this week after rumours surfaced down under that he was unhappy and wanted an NRL return.
Liam Tindall and Luis Roberts both start on the wings.
Sam Lisone has a first start in a Leeds shirt and Jarrod O’Connor comes into the hooking role with no Kruise Leeming.
Sam Walters at prop and James McDonnell and Leon Ruan at second-row make up the 13.