Just four teams remain as the Betfred Super League Semi-Finals get underway this weekend. All four sides know they are just 80 minutes away from Old Trafford and a place in the Grand Final next weekend. Here is a look at which England players are set to feature.
Wigan Warriors will take on the Leeds Rhinos in the first match. John Bateman is expected to start in his usual position in the second row. Bateman has proved to be a constant threat and could have a big say in the fixture.
Mike Cooper was also named in the squad by Matt Peet. Cooper made the switch to Wigan from Warrington earlier in the season and the prop will be hoping he can help his side walkout at the Theatre of Dreams.
Liam Marshall scored 21 tries this season in the Betfred Super League and has been causing many teams issues on the left wing. Marshall finished fourth in the overall standings for top try scorer, and he could add a few more tries against Leeds.
As for the Rhinos, Mikolaj Oldezki has been arguably the most consistent performer in the Leeds side. The prop has really shown his quality this season and has put himself into strong contentions to make the England squad for the World Cup.
Kruise Leeming missed some of the action before the play-offs due to a leg injury, however he has returned to the side and has played a key role. The hooker is key for Leeds both in attack and defence which means he could have a big say on the final outcome of the fixture.
The second semi-final sees the reigning champions, St Helens hosting the Salford Red Devils in a repeat of the 2019 Super League Grand Final.
It was announced earlier this week that Alex Walmsley would be ruled out for the remainder of the season and the Rugby League World Cup.
Jack Welsby has been a key asset to the Saints side. The full-back could add to his try and try assist tally for the season.
Tommy Makinson has been a threat on the St Helens wing and if he is given too much space, he could exploit the Salford defence.
Meanwhile in the forward pack, Joe Batchelor and Matty Lees are expected to start for the defending champions.
In opposition, Kallum Watkins will pose a threat in the second row. Watkins has been a consistent performer and could make the World Cup squad. Watkins scored last weekend during Salford’s victory over Huddersfield Giants.
Fixtures:
Friday
- Wigan Warriors v Leeds Rhinos – 8PM- Live on Sky Sports
Saturday
- St Helens v Salford Red Devils – 1PM – Live on Channel Four and Sky Sports
