Leeds Rhinos Head Coach Rohan Smith Provides Comprehensive Injury Update
Leeds Rhinos head coach Rohan Smith has delivered a detailed injury report, shedding light on the status of several key players. While the squad continues to face a lengthy injury list, there is some positive news as homegrown talent Harry Newman nears a return, though the club will be without Riley Lumb and Brodie Croft for their upcoming fixture.
Lumb and Croft were both forced off during the Rhinos’ convincing 46-8 victory over London Broncos last weekend, with Croft having scored a try prior to his early departure. Coach Smith revealed that Lumb is facing a lengthy layoff due to a “decent hamstring” injury, potentially requiring surgery, while Croft is dealing with a minor groin issue that will rule him out of this weekend’s match against Catalans Dragons, but he is expected to return after the upcoming Challenge Cup semi-final break.
On a brighter note, Newman, who has missed the Rhinos’ last two games due to a back problem, has been training and could be available for the trip to France. Smith stated, “> Harry’s trained yesterday, he’s had a good run around. We’ve got no training today so we’ll see how he is tomorrow, get through that morning session and then make an assessment about whether he’s going to be ready to travel.”
The injury woes continue for the Rhinos, with Paul Momirovski also sidelined with an ankle issue that is expected to keep him out for 4-6 weeks. Additionally, Tom Holroyd is progressing towards a potential return in a couple of weeks, while James Bentley’s recovery from concussion-related issues is still a lengthy process, with the club targeting an early July return for the player.
Smith emphasized the importance of prioritizing the players’ health and well-being, particularly when it comes to concussion, stating, “> With all injuries, healing and recovery is number one, and that’s certainly the case for concussion because you only get one chance of having a healthy and happy brain.”
The Rhinos will be eager to see their injured players return to full fitness as they continue their campaign, but the focus remains on ensuring the long-term well-being of the squad.
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