Rhinos pair to make debut

Leeds' new signings Darrell Griffin and Richard Moore will make their first appearances for the Super League champions in their Heatshot Festive Challenge against Wakefield at Headingley on Boxing Day.

The front-row forwards, who have been recruited from Huddersfield and Crusaders respectively, are confirmed starters for the Rhinos, who will be without overseas duo Brent Webb and Brett Delaney as well as their England contingent who have been given more time off.

Leeds coach Brian McDermott said: "I know in the past that the Boxing Day game has seen various strengths of teams playing but we will field our strongest possible team."

He added: "We only have the game against Featherstone for Rob Burrow's testimonial before the start of the season so it is important that we approach the Heatshot Festive Challenge like it is a league match and look to play in that manner.

"That will give us a good indication of where we are as a squad and what more work we need to do over the next four weeks."

Wakefield are expected to have a host of new faces on view after making no fewer than 16 close-season signings so far.