Rohan Smith gives interesting assessment on Jack Sinfield

Tonight Leeds Rhinos are looking to make it three wins on the spin as they take on Leigh Leopards.

However, they only have one win away from home in 2023 so far.

That said, Smith revealed they could be boost by one major returnee:

“James Bentley is in the picture but otherwise we’ve been playing reasonably well over a period of time I feel.  There’s been a couple of hiccups along the way but there won’t be a lot of changes, we’ve got a couple of niggles to check over that will likely be okay. They’re just a quick check in the morning before we pick our team.”

He confirmed that Aidan Sezer is ready to feature:

“He’s fully trained today and trained pretty sharp, he’s had a pretty good week of prep generally.”

He addressed the Rhinos’ continuity which has been a rarity in recent season: “I also see continuity as a danger, trying to find a decent blend of the two. Obviously we had some disruption around the dummy-half situation earlier in the season but that’s starting to show it’s path. We’ve been recently settled around the spine then and Ash showed us that he can support us at full-back last week.

“Continuity is important but also being adaptable and versatile is important over the duration of a season.

“I think the way that some coaches go about picking the same team if it’s available or training with the same team works well until one or two players aren’t available. As soon as you have to make some changes people aren’t adaptable enough if you haven’t practiced that.”

Meanwhile, he gave an update on Morgan Gannon: “He did well on the weekend and we’re planning on getting a bunch more contact done over the next couple of weeks and lots of practice done. Whilst some guys will be on lighter duties he’ll be working hard and after the international break he’ll be well and truly back into the full mix. No doubt he’ll force his way in.”

There is a lot of talk about Leeds’ halfbacks at present with both Blake Austin and Sezer out of contract.

Many fans see Jack Sinfield as the future of the Rhinos’ halfbacks and Smith answered the question if he is ready:

“I think he is, I think he’s improved through the pre-season and his performances in academy and reserves have been very mature, tough and good team-orientated half-back performances. He’s ready to jump in when the opportunity is there for him.”