Championship Preview: York v Halifax

York City Knights coach Gary Thornton is battling against a mounting injury list just three weeks into the new Kingstone Press Championship season.

Matt Nicholson (shoulder) and Jack Lee (shoulder) are both facing a number of weeks on the sidelines, while Aaron Lyons (hip), Austin Bell (ankle) and Danny Nicklas (shoulder) are also ruled out of Sunday’s fixture.

Dean Hadley (twisted ankle) will face a late fitness test before his availability is decided.

Thornton said: “We knew these three weeks – against Batley, Halifax and Sheffield – would be tough. We got a bit beat up at Batley last week, and it’ll certainly test the strength and depth of our squad.

“Our biggest concern is the front row, and we could have only two recognised props, but I won’t risk anyone that’s not right.

“We’ve got a short turnaround next week and a critical period coming up.”

Halifax coach Karl Harrison could name an unchanged side after reporting no new injury concerns after last week’s 30-20 win over Keighley Cougars.

‘Fax’s preparations for Sunday’s game have included an opposed training session with NRL champions Melbourne Storm.

Harrison said: “We treated it like an intense training session and everybody felt the benefit.

“Being on the same pitch as the Storm players was fantastic for our lads.”