Leeds Rhinos' Grand Final hopes hit by fresh injury blow as star man ruled out
Leeds Rhinos' Super League title hopes have been dealt a devastating blow after captain Ash Handley was told his season is over.
The Yorkshire Post understands the Dream Team representative has suffered a back injury that is also set to rule him out of the World Cup.
With Jack Bird also sidelined for Friday's semi-final against Warrington Wolves, as first reported by Love Rugby League, Brad Arthur is facing a selection crisis for the biggest game of Leeds' season.
Handley, who has scored 10 tries in 23 games this year, had been moved to full-back to solve the problem created by Lachie Miller's absence.
His own season-ending injury will now see Arthur turn to rookie 20-year-old Fergie McCormack, who has just three Super League appearances to his name.
Bird's injury compounds the Rhinos' issues and robs Arthur of more valuable experience for the do-or-die clash with Warrington.
The former New South Wales centre has sustained hamstring damage, forcing another backline reshuffle at a crucial stage of the campaign.
Leeds were forced to settle for second place after losing the League Leaders' Shield to Wigan Warriors and head into the Headingley semi-final on the back of three straight home defeats. They must now find a way to overcome the latest setbacks to keep their title hopes alive.