Two stars return for Leeds Rhinos whilst winger again absent against Bradford Bulls

Rohan Smith has named his side for Sunday’s friendly against Bradford Bulls at Headingley.

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 with Derrell Olpherts again at centre.

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.

Tom Holroyd and James Donaldson start on the bench as does Jack Sinfield and Levi Edwards after they featured against Leigh.

The rest of the bench is made up of academy stars.

The game kicks off at 14:30 on Sunday and can be watched on the OurLeague app.

Here is the squad in full:

Leeds Rhinos Head Coach Rohan Smith has named his starting line up for this Sunday’s game against Bradford Bulls at Headingley for the Keith Howard Foundation Trophy, kick off 2.30pm.
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— Leeds Rhinos (@leedsrhinos) January 27, 2023