Leeds Rhinos without Donald for World Club Challenge

LEEDS RHINOS are resigned to being without winger Scott Donald for Sunday's Gillette World Club Challenge against Melbourne Storm.

The former Manly Sea Eagles flier jarred his shoulder in the Rhinos' 22-10 Super League win over Salford last Friday and coach Brian McClennan is pessimistic over his chances of lining up at Elland Road.

"He's not progressing as well as we would have liked," McClennan told a press conference at Elland Road.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

"We'll give him another couple of days but, if he's not right, we're very confident in the players we've got available in that position."

Donald, who scored Leeds' only try in their 11-4 win over Melbourne in the 2008 World Club Challenge, is one of only two specialist wingers in the Rhinos' Super League squad.

McClennan is likely to switch teenager Kallum Watkins from centre to wing if Australian newcomer Brett Delaney recovers in time from a knee injury sustained on his home debut.

Watkins has deputised for Delaney in the last two matches.

"Brett's coming along really well," added the coach. "It's looking like he'll be in the 19 and I'd say his chances of playing are good.

"Kallum is a really exciting talent, we've a lot of confidence in his ability."