Leeds Rhinos handed major boost with England international named in squad for first time

Leeds have been handed a major boost ahead of their trip to Hull KR this Friday with England international Mikolaj Oledzki named for the first time in 2023. 

Oledzki, 24, is yet to make his first appearance of the season following a shoulder injury picked up last year.

The front-rower fought through the pain to represent England at last year’s World Cup on home soil, making his only appearance against France in the 42-18 victory at Bolton.

He underwent shoulder surgery during pre-season and has been on the road to recovery ever since.

Back-rower James Bentley also returns, having completed his one-match ban.

The Ireland international received a Grade B dangerous contact charge following the club’s defeat to Castleford for a hit on Jacob Miller.

He was forced to watch on as Leeds completed a comeback at Headingley Stadium for a 32-22 score against Catalans.

Full-back Luke Hooley is once again in the mix, having recently returned to full fitness. The 2022 Championship Grand Finalist with Batley made a successful return from injury for Leeds’ reserves side against Castleford in the 46-10 victory.

The off-season recruit suffered an ankle injury during pre-season, but could make his debut this Friday at Craven Park.

Leeds 21-man squad: Myler, Fusitu’a, Newman, Macdonald, Austin, Sezer, Oledzki, Tetevano, Bentley, Martin, Smith, O’Connor, Lisone, Olpherts, Sangare, Holroyd, McDonnell, Walters, Roberts, Johnson.

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