Hull FC face Leeds Rhinos this Saturday in another tough test with John Cartwright’s side still missing plenty of key players as they scrap to remain in the Super League play-offs.
Currently, the Black and Whites are one point ahead of chasers Wakefield Trinity but Trin have three of their final four matches against bottom three teams. In contrast, Hull FC have to face challengers Leeds Rhinos and Hull KR as well as home matches against Warrington Wolves and Catalans Dragons.
Home games would typically be good, but not for the Black and Whites whose home record stands at just three wins from ten, compared to an away record of nine wins from twelve.
Realistically, Hull FC will have to win three of their final four games to make the top six and that’s a tough ask, especially with their injury situation.
Saturday’s opponents Leeds Rhinos have a number of injury doubts as well and we’ve looked at the early team news for that crunch match.
Hull FC team news
Last Friday’s loss to St Helens saw another name added to the casualty list with Jed Cartwright leaving the field after just three minutes with what looked to be a dislocated shoulder, something which would likely rule him out for this Saturday.
Two men who will definitely miss out and are big losses are John Asiata (hamstring) and Will Pryce (foot) with the latter a chance of returning this season, and the former done for the year.
Liam Watts also missed out last week with a HIA but he should be able to return providing he has gone through all the protocols correctly. Liam Knight and Ligi Sao are two other long-term absentees whilst Sam Eseh missed out last week due to a hamstring and could be available for selection.
Leeds Rhinos team news
Leeds Rhinos were short on their pack yet took it to Hull KR and dominated them and that should strike fear into Hull FC given the fact that some key men could return this week.
Mikolaj Oledzki (fractured cheekbone) was left out once again with coach Brad Arthur describing him as “borderline” so he could return this week. New loanee Joe Shorrocks could also feature having been allowed a week to settle in.
The concern from the win over Hull KR was the fact Ash Handley was seen icing his groin with Brad Arthur unable to give a clear update post-match, simply explaining that it’s something the centre had been carrying all season.
Fellow co-captain Cam Smith has missed time with a back problem but is nearing a return whilst Tom Holroyd (wrist) is another close to full fitness.
Alfie Edgell and Maika Sivo won’t feature but Cooper Jenkins is another forward that could be nearing a return, though Saturday does seem too early.
Battles with the Rhinos on home soil 🍿
⚫️⚪️ #COYH | @ecostrad pic.twitter.com/iPS5AJxcRQ
— Hull FC (@hullfcofficial) August 26, 2025
