Derrell Olpherts has become the second Leeds Rhinos player in a week to withdraw late from a pre-season game having been left out of the squad to face Bradford Bulls. The new signing had been due to start at centre in the match, having been named in a team list published on Friday.
But the Rhinos published an amended teamsheet just before the game, with Olpherts' name nowhere to be seen. For the second week running it means Levi Edwards has been called up from the bench to a starting position.
Leeds have yet to comment on Olpherts' absence but coach Rohan Smith is set to be asked following the game against the Bulls, their third pre-season game so far. Both Rhyse Martin and Cameron Smith will start the match, with goal-kicker Martin to play at centre Loose forward Smith has overcome a calf niggle to feature. Rohan Smith is testing a number of players in the position with Nene Macdonald and Harry Newman both currently injured. Papua New Guinea international Martin did play occasionally in the position during the 2022 campaign. Morgan Gannon features in the halves again with Ash Handley at fullback.
Read more: Leeds Rhinos v Bradford Bulls live: Headingley hosts one of rugby league's greatest rivalries
Leeds Rhinos team to face Bradford Bulls: Ash Handley, Luis Roberts, Rhyse Martin, Levi Edwards, Liam Tindall, Morgan Gannon, Richie Myler, Sam Lisone, Jarrod O'Connor, Sam Walters, James McDonnell, Leon Ruan, Cameron Smith. Subs: Tom Holroyd, James Donaldson, Jack Sinfield, Oli Field, Joe Gibbons, Alfie Edgell, Tom Nicholson-Watton.
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