Huddersfield Giants Secure Triple Loan Deal with Leeds Rhinos to Combat Unprecedented Injury Crisis

Huddersfield Giants bolster their squad with a triple loan swoop for Riley Lumb, Presley Cassell, and Ned McCormack from Leeds Rhinos to end their injury crisis.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 18, 2026, 5:30 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from Love Rugby League

Emergency Recruitment Drive Addresses Critical Squad Shortage

The Huddersfield Giants have taken decisive action to stabilize their roster by securing a trio of young talents from the Leeds Rhinos on short-term loan agreements. According to Matthew Shaw, the arrival of Riley Lumb, Presley Cassell, and Ned McCormack is intended to provide immediate relief for a squad currently decimated by physical attrition. Last week, the Giants reached a breaking point when over half of their first-team squad was ruled unfit for selection, contributing to a series of heavy defeats. By integrating these high-potential Rhinos players, the club hopes to field a more balanced and competitive lineup as they attempt to salvage their early-season momentum.

Riley Lumb Seeks Game Time Following Sivo Return

Among the new arrivals, winger Riley Lumb brings a proven scoring pedigree to the Giants' backline despite his recent struggle for minutes at Headingley. Lumb was a standout performer for the Rhinos last season, crossing for ten tries in sixteen appearances, but he found himself displaced following the return of powerhouse international Maika Sivo. The loan move provides Lumb with a vital platform to maintain his match fitness and demonstrate his Super League credentials in a starting role. For Huddersfield, his inclusion offers a much-needed clinical edge to an attack that has struggled for consistency during their winless start to the 2026 campaign.

Rhinos Prospects Cassell and McCormack Add Vital Depth

The Giants have also bolstered their middle and outside back options with the additions of Presley Cassell and Ned McCormack. Cassell, who featured in Leeds’ opening-round fixture against the Leigh Leopards, has found senior opportunities limited in subsequent weeks despite having nine top-flight appearances to his name. Meanwhile, McCormack arrives in West Yorkshire with a growing reputation following a series of eye-catching performances, most recently in a Challenge Cup victory over the Widnes Vikings. According to Director of Rugby Andy Kelly, these young athletes provide head coach Luke Robinson with essential tactical flexibility during a period where the club has been "blighted by injury" across multiple positions.