Leigh Leopards Squad Depth Reaches Breaking Point as Key Duo Suffer Significant Long Term Injuries

Leigh Leopards lose Keanan Brand and Andy Badrock to serious injuries. Coach Adrian Lam discusses the squad crisis and the upcoming clash with Wakefield Trinity.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 18, 2026, 5:31 AM EDT

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

Medical Room Crisis Escalates for Leopards

The physical toll of the 2026 campaign has taken a devastating turn for the Leigh Leopards, with two more senior players added to an already extensive injury list. According to Matthew Shaw, outside back Keanan Brand is facing a minimum of six weeks on the sidelines due to an ankle injury sustained during recent competition. Even more concerning is the status of Andy Badrock, who suffered a dislocated shoulder that could potentially end his season depending on the results of upcoming scans. These setbacks come at a time when the club was already operating with a skeleton crew, having fielded just nineteen available players during their recent Challenge Cup victory over Hull FC.

Adrian Lam Navigates Toughest Coaching Period

Head coach Adrian Lam has been candid about the psychological and tactical challenges presented by the club’s current predicament. Speaking to Love Rugby League, Lam acknowledged that while coaching is inherently difficult during successful periods, the current accumulation of injuries has forced the staff to "think outside of the box" to maintain competitiveness. Despite the mounting pressure, Lam remains focused on the opportunity for fringe players to demonstrate their character and build momentum. The coach emphasized that finding a victory during this depleted period could serve as a vital confidence booster as the squad eventually welcomes back its senior stars later in the spring.

Internal Solutions Prioritized Over Loan Market

Despite the clear strain on his roster, Lam has signaled a reluctance to utilize the loan market to bolster his ranks. The Leopards’ management has historically preferred to rely on their internal squad depth, a philosophy Lam intends to maintain even as the team reaches what he describes as the "bottom bare bones" of its resources. While the club is monitoring the market as a precaution, the current strategy is to promote from within and adjust tactical systems to suit the available personnel. This homegrown approach will be tested to its limit this weekend as the club finalizes its matchday seventeen for the journey to West Yorkshire.