Leigh Leopards return to Super League doesn’t get any easier.
After losing to last year’s semi-finalists Salford Red Devils last week at home in a closely contested battle at the Leigh Sports Village in front of a party atmosphere, the Leopards head to France this weekend to take on the Catalans Dragons.
The French side finished in the top four for the third season in a row last year and started the season with a win away at Wakefield Trinity.
They are expected to make it two wins from two against the Leopards on Saturday but the Leopards have named a strong squad for the game.
The game kicks off in France at 18:00 which is 17:00 UK time.
Unlike in previous years, the game will not be on Sky Sports. There will sadly be no live TV coverage but BBC will show highlights in the Super League Show.
In a surprise, Leigh’s star fullback Zak Hardaker has been named at centre with Gareth O’Brien named at fullback.
This means Ben Reynolds joins Lachlan Lam in the halves.
Umyla Hanley again misses out after signing from Wigan Warriors.
Former St Helens number nine Aaron Smith starts at nine with Edwin Ipape on the bench.
Ed Chamberlain is dropped to the 18th man meaning he could play if there are three head injuries.