Rohan Smith has named first-choice wingers David Fusitu'a and Ash Handley at centre for Leeds Rhinos' opening-round clash with Warrington Wolves. After weeks of consideration that has seen seven players tested in the role, the Rhinos boss has decided to name the pair in the role while Harry Newman and Nene Macdonald continue to recover from their injuries.
It means new signings Luis Roberts and Derrell Olpherts debut on the wing, which is ultimately their preferred positions. As expected, Richie Myler starts at fullback with Blake Austin and Aidan Sezer in the halves.
In the pack, Kruise Leeming has been given the nod to start the game ahead of Jarrod O'Connor, who will play from the bench. Tom Holroyd and new NRL addition Sam Lisone are the starting props with Zane Tetevano starting at loose forward. That means Justin Sangare and Cameron Smith are also set to be used from the interchange.
In the absence of James Bentley, Morgan Gannon starts in the back row, with Rhyse Martin playing in his favoured position. The final bench spot sees James Donaldson given the nod over James McDonnell.
Rhinos: Myler, Roberts, Fusitu'a, Handley, Olpherts, Austin, Sezer, Holroyd, Leeming, Lisone, Gannon, Martin, Tetevano. Subs: Donaldson, O'Connor, Sangare, Smith.
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