Leeds Rhinos have been flying high in 2026 but enter the Super League semi-finals on the back of what is arguably their patchiest run of form. The Rhinos ended the season with a drubbing from Wigan Warriors, that effectively saw the League Leaders' Shield slip from their grasp, and then backed it up with a poor showing against Hull FC in the final round of the season. That meant Leeds finished the season with back-to-back losses and had to settle for second despite sitting in first for the majority of the season.
However, that still meant they have had a week off to regroup, recharge and refocus before they take on Warrington Wolves in the semi-finals, live on Sky Sports on Friday October 25, with kick-off at 8pm. Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player One conundrum that they will have hoped to have worked out fully by then is their new combinations now that their star fullback Lachie Miller has been ruled out of the remainder of the season following his hamstring injury in the match against Wigan. Leeds Rhinos head coach Brad Arthur has opted to move in-form centre Handley into the last line of defence to mike up the trifecta alongside Brodie Croft and Jake Connor.
Miller has "no doubt" that his side will get firing once again and make it all the way to the big dance. "I am alright, I had a couple days to myself," Miller said to Sky Sports. "It is one of those things.
It is a tough sport we play and everyone has been through it at some stage it just wasn't great timing. "I have just got to move my focus to the team and what they need. "The beauty of Ash (Handley) is he is just a class player.
On the wing, he was one of the best wingers in the competition. He moved to centres and is one of the best centres. He will probably now be one of the best fullbacks if he stays there.
We have been really good all year at home except for the last couple. "I have no doubt that the boys will turn up. They have to get up for one game, focus for one game, concentrate for one game, and I have no doubt that they can." Handley will play at fullback for just the second time this season in the semi-final and while he is aware he has a challenge ahead, it is one he is embracing for the good of the team.
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