Leeds Rhinos pair set for lengthy spells on sidelines

Josh McAllister
Mikolaj Oledzki Leeds Rhinos. PA Images

Leeds Rhinos have confirmed that both Mikolaj Oledzki and Luke Hooley have undergone successful surgeries in the last week. 

Oledzki, 24, sustained a shoulder injury in the latter part of last season and was managed by the club’s medical team. He went on to feature in the Grand Final and also for England during the World Cup against France from the bench.

He has since had surgery on the shoulder and will be sidelined for up to 14 weeks.

Meanwhile, new signing Hooley suffered an ankle injury during training and underwent surgery last Friday. He is expected to miss up to 12 weeks.

The full-back makes the step up from Super League on a two-year deal from Batley.

Leeds Rhinos boss confirms injuries

Head coach Rohan Smith commented: “It is never ideal when players have to have surgery but we are fortunate on the whole with our group that very few players are in that position ahead of the 2023 season.

“Understandably, Mik was keen to push himself for England selection for a home World Cup and that was his reward for an outstanding season with the Rhinos.

“Unfortunately, his time away has worsened the injury and he has immediately gone to have the operation. It is a long season, and especially when you consider the amount of minutes Mik played last year. It will not do him any harm looking at the bigger picture to have some extra time off the field.”

On Hooley, the Australian coach continued:  “Luke rolled his ankle in training which didn’t look serious at the time. However the scans have revealed an issue.

“The decision was taken to take decisive action to make sure he is back on the field as soon as possible rather than rehab and then make a call.

“Both players are in the best possible hands with our medical team and their operations went well with no complications.”

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