Leeds Rhinos without key man for Castleford Tigers derby as Brad Arthur provides injury latest

The Australian scored two tries to help inspire Leeds to a 58-6 victory over Hull KR in Las Vegas, only to discover a minor issue on his return to England with the rest of Brad Arthur's squad.

Croft, who faces a race against time to be fit for next week's Challenge Cup tie at Wakefield Trinity, will be replaced by rookie half-back George Brown this weekend.

"We weren't aware of it until we got back and he wasn't aware of it happening in the game," said Arthur. "He got a slight hamstring strain and is going to miss a couple of games.

"It's not bad but it's early in the season. He'll probably miss the cup tie because it's only another five days.

"George Brown will come into the team and get another opportunity this week. The good thing for George is that the senior players and leaders want him in the team. We've got a couple of options and they want to back the kid."

Jack Bird has replaced Croft in Arthur's 21-man squad but the game comes too soon for the new signing.

"He probably isn't physically ready for what the team needs him to do," said Arthur. "I don't think it's fair for him or the team.

"He's got a bit of work to do but is going to be a handy addition once he does join our team."

Mikolaj Oledzki, meanwhile, is pushing to make his first Super League appearance of the year after several weeks out with a rib injury.

"He pushed himself to try and be available last week," added Arthur during Friday's press conference.

"He's close but we'll see how we go with training today. We certainly don't need to rush guys back in if they're not up to doing their job."