Rugby League Roundup: Injuries Loom as Squads Hit Halfway Point
After a brief pause for the Challenge Cup Final, Super League action resumed with Round Fourteen, officially marking the halfway point of the 2023 season. However, several teams now face mounting injury concerns as they look to navigate the second half of the campaign.
The injury woes are particularly relevant for English and French players, who are set to face off in an international fixture at the end of the month, celebrating 90 years of the sport in France.
The round kicked off with a Friday night triple-header, headlined by Salford Red Devils’ 25-14 victory over Warrington Wolves. Salford’s Marc Sneyd scored 13 points, leading to calls for his inclusion in the upcoming England squad. Elsewhere, Wigan Warriors overcame a “hangover” to defeat Castleford Tigers 10-8, while Hull KR thrashed Huddersfield Giants 32-6, with Ryan Hall becoming Super League’s all-time leading try-scorer.
On Saturday, Hull FC snapped their losing streak by defeating Leeds Rhinos 18-10, while Leigh Leopards bolstered their playoff hopes with a 10-2 win over Catalans Dragons. The round concluded with St Helens handing a 52-6 beating to London Broncos, but the victory came at a cost, as the league leaders suffered several key injuries.
Saints winger Tommy Makinson was seen in a protective boot after sustaining a foot injury on his first carry, while Ben Davies was withdrawn for a Head Injury Assessment, and Curtis Sironen was spotted holding his groin and hamstring areas. Elsewhere, Hull KR’s James Batchelor is doubtful for their upcoming clash with Castleford due to a hamstring issue, potentially jeopardizing his chances of an England debut later this month.
As teams look to navigate the second half of the season, managing player fitness and availability will be crucial, particularly with the international fixture on the horizon.
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