Cameron Smith is waiting to discover whether he'll be cleared to feature in Leeds Rhinos' pre-season clash with Bradford Bulls as he continues to brush off a calf injury. The ball-playing loose forward, entrusted with the number 13 jersey in 2023, has yet to be given the green light to return to the field following a 'standard' pre-season injury.
Smith has missed the pre-season trial games with Wakefield Trinity and Leigh Leopards after a calf niggle that has somewhat disrupted his preparation in recent weeks. However, he is now back in training and coach Rohan Smith confirmed last week that he should be fit to feature against their old West Yorkshire rivals.
Providing an update, Smith said: "I'm just waiting for the all-clear. I had a little niggle in my calf the week before Christmas. It's nothing major, we just didn't want to push it. I just need to make sure I'm ticking all the boxes so when I'm back playing it's for good and not in and out. It's just a precaution, nothing to worry about."
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Despite the issue, Smith is gearing up ahead of the new campaign following a pre-season that has featured surgery and some time away from the sport.
"In terms of being productive, having a rest was good for me, I had a really tough year, the games came around quickly and I had a few things that needed tidying up. I had elbow surgery and to be honest I was just exhausted.
"We had the big build to the Grand Final so I knew I needed a break to come back firing. I've really enjoyed this pre-season, to be honest, we have a few weeks to go yet but we've got a tight group, so it's been enjoyable."
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