Leeds Rhinos have been flying high in 2026 but enter the Super League semi-finals on the back of what is arguably their toughest run of form.
The Rhinos ended the season with a drubbing by Wigan Warriors that effectively saw the League Leaders’ Shield slip from their grasp, and then backed it up with a poor performance against Hull FC in the final round of the season.
This meant that Leeds ended the season with back-to-back defeats and had to settle for second place, despite being top for most of the season.
However, it meant they had a week off to regroup, recharge and refocus before facing Warrington Wolves. in the semi-finals, live Sky Sports on Friday, October 25, starting at 8:00 p.m.
One conundrum they will have hoped to have completely solved by then is their new combinations now that their star defender Lachie Miller has been ruled out for the rest of the season after picking up a hamstring against Wigan.
Leeds Rhinos boss Brad Arthur has opted to move in-form center Handley to the back line to complete the trifecta alongside Brodie Croft and Jake Connor.
Miller has “no doubt” his team will make another shot and make it all the way to the big jump.
“I’m fine, I’ve had a few days to myself,” Miller said Sky Sports.
Use the Chrome browser for a more accessible video player
Highlights from the Super League qualifier between Warrington Wolves and Hull KR as Matty Ashton’s hat-trick helped the hosts book a semi-final against Leeds Rhinos
“It’s one of those things. It’s a tough sport we play and everybody’s been through it at one stage, it just wasn’t a good time.
“I just have to shift my focus to the team and what they need.
“The beauty of Ash (Handley) is that he’s just a class player. On the wing, he was one of the best wing-backs in the competition. He moved into the center and is one of the best centre-backs. He’s probably now going to be one of the best defenders if he stays there.
“I have no doubts, we have been very good all year at home, apart from the last couple.
“I have no doubt that the boys will come. They have to get up for a game, focus for a game, focus for a game and I have no doubt that they can.”
Handley: I just have to go out and execute
Use the Chrome browser for a more accessible video player
Great play between Ash Handley and Brodie Croft results in a great try for Leeds Rhinos against Warrington Wolves
Handley will play at fullback for the second time this season in the semi-finals and while he is aware he has a challenge ahead, it is one he is embracing for the good of the team.
“It’s a big change, obviously I haven’t played there in years,” Handley said Sky Sports.
“I’ll take the challenge. Brad (Arthur) thinks that’s what’s going to be best for the band and I’m never going to go back and say I’m not doing it.
“I had a lot of pressure on my shoulders when I switched from wing to centre.
“I’m going to do my best. He’s very clear about what he expects from everyone at every position, I just have to go out there and execute.”
Results and schedule of the Superliga play offs
qualifiers
Friday September 18: Wakefield Trinity 26-16 Leigh Leopards
Saturday September 19: Warrington Wolves 35-12 Hull KR
semifinals
Semi-Final 1 – Friday 25 September: Leeds Rhinos vs Warrington Wolves, 8pm KO on Sky Sports
Semi Final 2 – Saturday 26th September: Wigan Warriors v Wakefield Trinity, 5.30pm KO on Sky Sports
The Super League play-offs are underway, live on Sky Sports, and continue until the grand final from Old Trafford on October 3.
