Tigers Rhinos tip: Leeds favourites despite Handley blow
Leeds Rhinos are strongly favoured to beat Castleford Tigers on Sunday as the Super League leaders chase an eighth straight win. The tigers rhinos clash kicks off at 3pm at OneBore Stadium, with Racing Post tipping Leeds to cover a hefty handicap despite captain Ash Handley missing the trip.
Key Takeaways
- Leeds visit Castleford on Sunday 19 July at 3pm, live on Sky Sports+.
- The Rhinos have won their last seven Super League games and their last seven against the Tigers.
- Captain Ash Handley is out for three weeks after an appendix operation; Jarrod O'Connor also misses the trip.
- Racing Post's best bet is Leeds to cover a 20-point handicap at evens with bet365.
- Castleford have lost five of their last six matches.
Who is tipped to win the Tigers Rhinos Super League clash?
According to Racing Post, Leeds should extend their seven-game Super League winning streak when they travel to Castleford.
The tipsters say the Rhinos look the team to beat for the League Leaders' Shield. Leeds beat Catalans Dragons 28-6 away last Saturday and face a Cas side that has lost five of its last six.
Castleford announced three new signings for the 2027 campaign this week, a sign the club has an eye on next season. Racing Post says Cas lack the forward pack to compete and expects Leeds to keep them camped in their own half.
Why is Ash Handley missing for Leeds?
Leeds captain Ash Handley had a laparoscopic appendectomy after acute appendicitis earlier this week and is expected to be sidelined for three weeks, BBC Sport reported.
That timeframe means he is also likely to miss Super League games against Bradford Bulls and Toulouse. Hooker Jarrod O'Connor will miss this week after showing signs of delayed concussion and is following return-to-play protocol.
Prop Keenan Palasia is ruled out for six weeks with a foot injury, while winger Ryan Hall remains sidelined with a foot problem from Magic Weekend. Cooper Jenkins is cleared after an eye injury against Catalans.
What are the betting tips and team news for Sunday?
Racing Post's best bet lists Leeds Rhinos on a 20-point handicap at even money with bet365. The outlet notes Leeds have scored 28 or more points in five consecutive matches and should cover the line.
Head coach Brad Arthur has made three changes to his 21-man squad. Jack Bird, Zak Lloyd, Alfie Edgell and Ben Littlewood come into contention, with Kallum Watkins named as captain.
Kick-off is 3pm at OneBore Stadium. For more quirky sports angles and viral match previews, browse Bizarre World on BlasterPost.