Rohan Smith will put a number of his outside backs in the centres when Leeds Rhinos take on Leigh Leopards. The club's two frontline centres, Harry Newman and Nene Macdonald, are both doubts to start the season due to injuries, leaving the Australian contemplating his options in the position before the Super League opener with Warrington.
Smith had already confirmed that new recurit Derrell Olpherts had been signed with a view to playing centre, despite spending the majority of his career on the wing. He will be one of several tested in the role while last year's first-choice wingers Ash Handley and David Fusitu'a will also be part of a contingent tried out there against Adrian Lam's side.
"We're going to give Ash (Handley), Fus (David Fusitu'a) and Derrell (Olpherts) some time at centre," Smith confirmed to the club's official website. "Tindall and Luis Roberts will get some good opportunities there as well.
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"We're going to move some people around and give them an opportunity at both wing and centre. With Newman and Macdonald still working their way back to full fitness we just want to have our options covered and see what we can do where and build our squad for the year."
Meanwhile, Smith provided updates on both Rhyse Martin and Cameron Smith. "Rhyse is actually only three weeks into pre-season so we thought it was a bit too soon for a friendly. Rhyse will be available for selection next week. Cam had a minor niggle early in the new year so he wasn't quite ready but will play against Bradford next week."
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