Northern Rail Cup preview

Leigh v Batley

In-form Leigh Centurions have a fully fit squad to pick from as coach Paul Rowley attempts to continue his side’s defence of the Northern Rail Cup.

Rowley said: "Week by week we keep surprising people. Now we’ve reached the halfway point, people will be taking us seriously if they weren’t already. We’re a close unit.

"Maybe we’re surprised how much fun we’re having and how much we’re enjoying ourselves, but as a sports-person you’ve always got to be confident, so I wouldn’t say we’re surprised at how well we’re doing.”

He added: "The Northern Rail Cup final is our day in the sun. Everyone wants to have a crack at this competition, just like Super League clubs go after the Challenge Cup.

"We’re proud to be the team that’s won it more times than any other, and we’ve a fantastic relationship with Northern Rail. We enjoy the competition and players and fans alike all look forward to it.”

Batley Bulldogs’ Johnny Campbell faces a fitness test on a dead leg, with Batley coach John Kear rating Campbell’s chances as "highly doubtful”.

James Green is also missing with a knee injury, while Alex Walmsley remains sidelined following a hand operation.

Kear said: "Leigh’s playing roster is very good. They’ve got Ridyard, Duffy and young Brierley from Castleford in the halves, as well as Beswick and McNally at nine and one, so the spine of their team is very, very creative.

"They’ve also got tough forwards up front, and big guys with plenty of pace out wide. They’re a good all round team.”

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