“He’s possible for…” – Leeds Rhinos estimate when star player will return

Leeds Rhinos will almost certainly be without their starting prop forward Mikolaj Oledzki when they face Catalans Dragons on Saturday, with the potential that the injury could linger much longer.

Oledzki is an England international and firmly established himself within the Leeds Rhinos set-up in the 2018 season and since then he has played 20 or more games in all but one season.

His 2022 campaign was arguably his best and his impressive form helped guide the Rhinos to the Grand Final whilst also earning him Dream Team honours.

With the Rhinos seeing both James Donaldson and Sam Lisone hit with two and three-game bans respectively, there is an absence in the forward pack but unfortunately for the club, Oledzki likely won’t be able to fill it this weekend.

Rohan Smith spoke about the 25-year-old’s injury in his presser, discussing his forward pack situation: “We’ve got those two out and Mikolaj’s still out. Tom Holroyd will be back in the picture. James McDonnell is another forward who’s back into the mix as well.”

Expanding on Oledzki’s shoulder injury, Smith said: “It’s one of those where it is not as clear-cut as many other injuries are. So it’s sort of a week-to-week proposition. He’s possible for this week but probably more possible than probable.

“He could progress significantly in a few days or it might take a bit more time or it might take a bit more time than that. It’s sort of round three, four, five. We’re not quite sure.”

Leeds Rhinos to fill Oledzki void with fresh returnees

Despite the confirmation that Oledzki will probably be missing for Saturday’s game against Catalans Dragons, Smith did confirm that both Tom Holroyd and James McDonnell were set to return.

The pair were very impressive in 2023 and could kick on again, particularly the young Holroyd who was handed the starting number ten shirt ahead of the season.

On the return of the pair, Smith noted: “It’s sort of fortunate timing. Ideally, we’d love everyone available to make a selection at prop, but it’s kind of good timing as well. They’re coming in fresh and they’ve done a bunch of good work on the training field and they’re eager to get back into it.

There is also a boost at full-back with NRL signing Lachie Miller set to return after illness ruled him out in the warm-up ahead of the clash with Hull KR.

Smith had reported at the time that Miller had been ill during the week but took a turn for the worse on the journey over which provided young Alfie Edgell with an opportunity.

Edgell may not be required to start this Saturday though with Miller on the up according to Smith.

He explained: “He’s coming good and he’s got moving again, so we’ll build him up again tomorrow and see where he’s at.”

As such the Rhinos could have their starting spine in place once again having made four signings across the one, six, seven and nine positions during the off-season.