Leeds Rhinos and Wigan Warriors are arguably the two biggest rugby league clubs in Britain.
They are the two most successful sides when it comes to Challenge Cup wins and two of the three most successful clubs in terms of lifting the title itself in either the winter era or the summer era.
They contested the first Grand Final in 1998 and Leeds became the last team to win the treble in 2015 by defeating Wigan at Old Trafford.
Fast forward to 2023 and as they prepare to meet for the third time this year it is one win a piece with Wigan sitting top as they arrive at Headingley whilst Leeds are scrapping for a top six spot.
As they prepare to meet, the team news is now in.
Rohan Smith has made just one change to the 21 man squad that won at Hull FC last week with youngster Riley Lumb called up in the 21 man squad for the first time. Lumb, 18, joined the Rhinos from Castleford Lock Lane and joined the first team squad this season.
The Rhinos are still without Aidan Sezer and James Bentley as they follow the return to play protocols following concussion. Ash Handley, who missed last Saturday’s game with a foot injury, is included as he continues to receive treatment.
There is still no update on the situation surrounding centre Nene MacDonald who is the man who drops out of the 21 last week.
He was named and expected to be back from Australia to feature against the Black and Whites but didn’t return.
This even raised questions about whether or not he would remain at Leeds since then there has been talk around Leeds pursuing Brenko Lee, a former Wigan target no less.
Matt Peet has made one change to his 21-man squad for Saturday, as Tyler Dupree is back available following a failed HIA and replaces Harvey Makin.
The game kicks off at 14:45 at Headingley on Saturday. It is live on Sky Sports and forms the second leg of a brilliant weekend of TV action after St Helens vs Leigh Leopards and prior to Warrington Wolves and Salford Red Devils on Channel 4 on Sunday.
