Brad Dwyer has been left out of the Leeds Rhinos team to face Catalans Dragons in the play-offs. The hooker, a star performer for the Rhinos in recent weeks, has not been selected by Rohan Smith.
It's been confirmed to Rugby League Live that the decision is tactical and nhas othing to do with injury. The Rhinos have opted to go with Kruise Leeming and Jarrod O'Connor as the two hookers, with O'Connor starting the game. With three hookers available and only two positions, a decision was made to not play Dwyer.
It's certainly a bold selection decision by Smith given Dwyer's game-changing performances in recent weeks. He has played his part in a number of key moments for the Rhinos in their recent run of form which saw them secure a play-off spot. He was instrumental in the stunning comeback victory against the Dragons in Perpignan back in June, was a star performer in the win over Hull KR and created Blake Austin's late winner in the victory over Huddersfield Giants.
Read more: Catalans Dragons v Leeds Rhinos live updates
Beyond that, captain Leeming has only nicely returned to action and is still easing his way back into form while O'Connor who has improved immeasurably in his new position recently, is still learning his craft. It means he could now have played his final game for the club, with Dwyer moving to Hull FC next season.
Elsewhere, Liam Tindall and Tom Briscoe play on the wings in the absence of David Fusitu'a and Ash Handley. Morgan Gannon starts in the back-row due to Rhyse Martin's suspension, with James Donaldson on the bench.
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