Niall Evalds' Hull KR absence explained as injury arrives at worst possible time
Details of Niall Evalds' shock absence from Hull KR's team to face Wigan Warriors are beginning to come to light. Evalds, a vital component of the Robins' spine during their excellent campaign, was a notable omission from the 17-man squad to face the current champions.
Jack Broadbent has instead taken his place, with the utility back trusted to provide the attacking spark that Evalds has delivered in abundance throughout the year.
Hull Live has learned that Evalds was a late withdrawal after sustaining the injury during the team's final training session before the game on Thursday. It is understood to be a calf injury that has seen him miss out on the team.
The good news for Rovers is that the injury is not believed to be a serious one, and Evalds is expected to make a prompt return to action as they go in hunt of the League Leaders' Shield and subsequently, a Grand Final.
However, given the nature of the injury, the decision has been made to not risk Evalds against Matt Peet's side, despite the stakes being so high. Instead, Rovers have decided to nurture the 31-year-old and ensure he is given time to overcome the injury, serious or not.
There's little doubting the size of the setback though, with Evalds one of the most prominent attacking threats in Super League this year. With 20 assists and eight tries to his name, there are only three other players in the competition: Matt Dufty, Mikey Lewis and Lachlan Lam, who have contributed more direct try involvements this year.
With that, Broadbent has big boots to fill. He has experience playing at fullback during his time at Leeds Rhinos and Castleford Tigers and will hope to make an impact tonight. Victory for Rovers would put them on the brink of clinching the League Leaders' Shield and securing their first major silverware since 1985. Defeat would see them be reliant on a Wigan defeat in the final two games, as well as needing to win both of their remaining games.
Click here - Get the latest news on our Rugby League Live WhatsApp channel