Predicted Hull KR line-up for the Hull derby as Tony Smith ponders changes

Hull KR are riding a wave of confidence right now. saw off Castleford Tigers in style last week to reach the semi-finals of the Challenge Cup and they’ll certainly fancy their chances of picking up a derby win on Good Friday.

Tony Smith has made one change to his 21-man squad going into the contest with Ethan Ryan replacing the injured Mikey Lewis but it remains to be seen whether he will be tempted into more changes across his side.

Here, Hull Live attempts to predict how Rovers will line up on Good Friday against their bitterest rivals Hull FC.

Rovers fans should expect Smith to avoid the temptation to tinker with his side too much this week, with changes to be kept to a minimum. The obvious one that will be made comes in the halves with Lewis ruled out for two months with the ankle injury he picked up last time out against the Tigers.

His absence means Rowan Milnes will get a run in the side alongside Jordan Abdull and the pair will be keen to continue their fine recent form. With Ryan, Ben Crooks and Will Dagger in the squad, Smith does have options should he wish to make changes in the outside backs and he will be monitoring the fitness of Sam Wood, who popped a rib last week.

Jimmy Keinhorst struggled at times against Castleford, but he has history in the derby, scoring the winning try at the death back in 2019, and he could keep his spot. The only other expected change in the Rovers’ side comes on the bench, with Dean Hadley expected to be given the green light to play after overcoming a calf issue.