Rugby League Roundup: Saints Dealt Injury Blow Ahead of Crucial Dragons Clash
St Helens, the reigning Super League champions, have been hit with a significant injury setback ahead of their pivotal top-of-the-table clash against the in-form Catalans Dragons. Head coach Paul Wellens has provided an update on the fitness of two key players, and the news is less than ideal for the Saints’ faithful.
Despite the team’s recent scoring spree, which saw them rack up 100 points in their past two outings, including a 40-10 victory over Leeds Rhinos, Saints will be without two important figures for an extended period. Wellens revealed that forward Joe Batchelor has suffered “pretty significant ankle ligament damage” and is expected to be sidelined for eight to nine weeks.
The injury woes don’t end there, as the Saints will also be without veteran half-back Jonny Lomax for around four weeks due to a hand fracture. Wellens acknowledged the challenge this presents, stating,
“It’s obviously not good to lose not just two players, but two very good players, so it’s obviously going be a challenge for us, but one that I will ask the team to rise to.”
The timing of these injuries could not be worse for St Helens, as they prepare to take on a formidable Catalans Dragons side in a repeat of last year’s Super League playoff semi-final. The clash, scheduled for Friday night at the Totally Wicked Stadium, will be aired live on Sky Sports, providing rugby league enthusiasts with a must-watch encounter.
Despite the setbacks, St Helens will be determined to maintain their impressive form and continue their pursuit of another Super League title. Fans will be hoping the team can rise to the occasion and overcome the absence of Batchelor and Lomax against a tough Catalans Dragons outfit.
đź”— Source
