Kai O'Donnell decision made as Salford Red Devils make major team change
Kai O'Donnell has been ruled out of Leigh Leopards' play-off clash with Salford Red Devils. The back-rower has suffered an abdominal injury and has not been cleared to play in the opening game of the play-offs.
Rugby League Live revealed earlier that O'Donnell was awaiting clearance to feature against the Reds after feeling the effects of a thunderous Sione Mata'utia tackle in the closing stages of last week's victory over St Helens. He was substituted in the closing moments of the game. O'Donnell is understood to have suffered injuries to his abdominal region and has not been cleared to play.
As a result, Zak Hardaker has been named on the bench, with Jack Hughes promoted to starting back-row.
There's also a major change in the Salford Red Devils squad, with Ryan Brierley named on the bench. Paul Rowley's trusted fullback will play from the interchange, with Chris Hankinson given the starting spot. The reason for the change is unclear though the Scotland star has been suffering with a rib injury during the second half of the season. Paul Rowley has made 17 changes after resting his players last week against Wigan Warriors.
Salford: Chris Hankinson, Ethan Ryan, Nene Macdonald, Tim Lafai, Deon Cross, Jayden Nikorima, Marc Sneyd, Brad Singleton, Joe Mellor, Gil Dudson, Sam Stone, Kallum Watkins, Oli Partington. Subs: Ryan Brierley, Joe Shorrocks, Shane Wright, Loghan Lewis.
Leigh: Matt Moylan, Darnell McIntosh, Umyla Hanley, Ricky Leutele, Josh Charnley, Gareth O'Brien, Lachlan Lam, Tom Amone, Edwin Ipape, Rob Mulhern, Jack Hughes, Frankie Halton, John Asiata. Subs: Brad Dwyer, Zak Hardaker, Aaron Pene, Owen Trout.
Click here - Get the latest news on our Rugby League Live WhatsApp channel