Leeds Rhinos vs Wakefield Trinity Preview

Leeds are set to kick off the 2021 Super League season with a Yorkshire derby against Wakefield Trinity at Headingley Stadium.

The match could potentially see the debuts of two big name signings for both clubs, Kyle Eastmond for the Rhinos and Mason Lino for Trinity.

The half backs signed for their current club in the off season. Eastmond returned to Rugby League from Union for the first time since he switched codes back in 2011. Kyle is yet to play for Leeds after missing out in their only preseason friendly against Huddersfield Giants.

Richard Agar kept his cards close to his chest in his press conference, with regards to the availability and fitness of his new signing, but the 31-year-old was named in the squad for Saturday’s game.

Mason Lino made the move from Australia to England in the off season – as he moved from NRL side Newcastle Knights. After making just 34 appearances over five years he comes to Super League with a point to prove. He will be playing alongside Jacob Miller in the halves, with the success of the partnership a key factor in Wakefield’s season.

Luke Gayle has also been named in the Leeds squad after recovering from a torn pectoral, but he is also a doubt for the game. Having missed the preseason friendly against Huddersfield Zane Tetevano is expected to make his debut alongside new signing King Vuniyayawa who joined the club from New Zealand Warriors.

Team News

Leeds will be without a number of key players with Robert Lui, Ash Handley, Jack Walker, Luke Briscoe, Jack Broadbent and Konrad Hurrell all out injured. The big question heading into the game is who will play in the halves for the Rhinos.

Wakefield have some injuries themselves with Max Jowitt, Kyle Wood and Eddie Battye all set to miss the game.

The two sides faced each other twice last season with both sides picking up a victory. Chris Chester’s side came away with a comfortable 30-6 victory in the first meeting between the sides. Leeds did revenge the loss in the second meeting with a narrow 20-18 win over Trinity. Both coaches will be expecting a tight affair this weekend.

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