St Helens face Castleford in tonight’s Challenge Cup tie with a significantly altered squad. Four changes have been made to the 21-man squad for the match at the Jungle.
The team is dealing with multiple absences due to injury and suspension. George Delaney, Jacob Host, and Nene Macdonald are all ruled out with injuries, while Joe Shorrocks is suspended. These losses present a significant challenge to the squad’s depth for this knockout game.
Squad Additions and Potential Line-Up
Agnatius Paasi and Alfie Sinclair have been drafted into the 21 for the first time this year. Jake Burns, a hooker, also joins the squad. Chris Matagi, an Academy back rower, has been included in the senior squad for the first time after impressing in Under 18 and Reserves fixtures.
Eamon O’Carroll offered some insights into potential selections during the weekly press call. Regarding Mark Percival’s inclusion in the 21, O’Carroll highlighted Percival’s quality and the boost his return to training has provided. He emphasized the importance of Percival playing at the right time and at his best, suggesting a cautious approach.
With Nene Macdonald’s absence, Harry Robertson might start at centre, rather than coming off the bench. This would potentially lead to a backline consisting of: Sailor; Feldt, Robertson, Cross, Murphy; Whitby, Hastings.
The coaching staff values having a back on the bench. Owen Dagnall may move up from 18th man to take a place on the bench.
Forwards Face Injury Challenges
The forwards are facing considerable challenges with injuries. Jacob Host’s broken leg adds to the existing absences of Matty Lees (MCL), Alex Walmsley (foot), and George Delaney (HIA).
The team could start with David Klemmer and Noah Stephens as the strongest available props. Agnatius Paasi, who has been playing in the Reserves and recently at Salford, might also get a chance. Youngster Sinclair is another option for the front row.
Jake Wingfield is likely to replace the suspended Joe Shorrocks at loose forward. Matt Whitley could come into the back row, or Wingfield could take on more of a prop’s role. With Burns in the 21, he could come on for Daryl Clark.
A possible pack formation could be: Klemmer, Clark, Stephens, Sironen, Wright, Whitley. Subs: Dagnall, Burns, Wingfield, Paasi. 18: Davies.
Other Challenge Cup News
- BBC One’s Morning Live to host Betfred Challenge Cup Quarter Final draw
- All the weekend’s Challenge Cup Round 4 ties and TV details
- Paul Rowley names Sain
The Challenge Cup tie takes place at the Jungle.