LeagueNews.co | Nick Loken

Rhinos begin Vegas preparations with Boxing Day clash

The Leeds Rhinos are set to showcase three of their 2026 recruits as they kick off their pre-Vegas preparations with the traditional Boxing Day matchup against Wakefield Trinity.

Head coach Brad Arthur has included 2025 grand final forward Ethan O'Neill, who recently joined from Leigh Leopards, Raiders hooker Danny Levi, and Cowboys rookie Jeremiah Mata'utia in the squad for this contest at Headingley, which is scheduled to begin at 11:30 PM (12:30 AM AEST).

The Rhinos are scheduled to face Super League champions Hull KR at Allegiant Stadium on February 28, as part of a triple-header that features NRL games between the Bulldogs and Dragons, as well as the Cowboys against the Knights.

The forward pack for Leeds maintains a familiar look, with regulars Tom Holroyd, Jarrod O'Connor, and Cooper Jenkins starting in the front row, while Keenan Palasia will take on the lock position.

Young halfback George Brown, who netted the winning try in last year's Festive Challenge, will be given the opportunity to start this year, joining only one other player-winger Harley Thomas-who has yet to make a first-team debut in the starting lineup.

As several senior players are returning from postseason surgeries and others are involved with the England squad during the Ashes, the back line brings a refreshing youthful energy. Max Simpson aims to celebrate his new contract at centre alongside Ned McCormack, while Riley Lumb has the chance to shine on the wing, filling in as Ryan Hall and Maika Sivo are unavailable for the Boxing Day game.