Ahead of today’s game against Bradford Bulls, Leeds Rhinos boss Brad Arthur has provided an injury update regarding two of his overseas stars.
Both Keenan Palasia and Jeremiah Mata’utia are missing from today’s game, which celebrates the testimonial of teammate Cameron Smith, and is also the first of four guaranteed meetings with the Bulls across the season.
Mata’utia was due to play in the club’s pre-season fixture over Castleford Tigers last week, but pulled up in training and missed the contest that the club ultimately lost 26-10.
The tall forward was one of three signings made by the club this off season, and joined Ethan O’Neill and Danny Levi at Headingley.
“Jerry [Mata’utia] is aiming for about Round Two,” Arthur confirmed in a pre-match interview with the club’s social media. The new arrival made his unofficial debut over Wakefield Trinity on Boxing Day, and was one of the game’s better performers.
Palasia, who was given the number 13 jersey ahead of 2026, is looking more promising to be fit for the start of the Super League season.
The Leeds boss explained: “Keenan, if he keeps progressing the way he is, it’s just a little niggle with his knee. He should be ready for the Challenge Cup game, if not Round One.”
Leeds will play the winners of the tie between Thatto Heath Crusaders and Widnes Vikings in Round Three of the knockout competition, and regardless of who wins will be drawn away from home.
That tie will be played on the first weekend in February, one week before the Rhinos get their Super League campaign underway with a trip to Leigh Leopards
Leeds Rhinos Head Coach Brad Arthur spoke to us ahead of this afternoon’s clash with Bradford Bulls at AMT Headingley for Cameron Smith’s testimonial game, kick off 1pm.
Brad gave us an insight into his approach to today’s game, paid tribute to Cameron Smith and gave an injury… pic.twitter.com/uNFg1aUX96— Leeds Rhinos (@leedsrhinos) January 24, 2026
