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Rivals Round Returns Preview

4 Sep 2025

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Rivals Round Returns Preview

Nothing Hits Harder Than Rivals Round Returns.

Rivals Round Returns has arrived - where the games mean more, hit harder and fans are at their most passionate and in their numbers.

And with the race to the Betfred Super League Grand Final now at full pace, we should expect total fireworks!

With five out of the six Play-Off places confirmed, focus shifts to where these five teams are going to finish in the final league standings.

And of course, who will occupy the last place in sixth?

You can read the FULL Rivals Round Returns Play-Off permutations HERE.

Thursday 4 September

Huddersfield Giants v Leeds Rhinos (20.00) – live on Sky Sports+ and SuperLeague+

It’s a double bill on Thursday Night and Huddersfield Giants will welcome a high-flying Leeds Rhinos to the Accu Stadium.

The Giants enter Rivals Round Returns on the back of a heavy beating by Wakefield, whereas the Rhinos stormed to victory against Hull FC in the previous round.

They also had a decent run out against the Giants back in the first Rivals Round, winning 28-6 at AMT Headingley.

Both sides are playing for bragging rights, but the Rhinos mean complete business and are looking to secure the highest possible finish and stand themselves in good stead for the Play-Offs.

Can Leeds keep up their winning streak? They're too hot to handle at the minute!

The Rhinos are forced into two changes with Joe Shorrocks suspended for two games and Max Simpson misses out due to concussion protocols. Keenan Palasia is also still missing so young centre Ned McCormack comes into the 21-man squad. 

Riley Lumb and Zak Lloyd have also been named.

Salford Red Devils v Catalans Dragons (20.00) – live on Sky Sports+ and SuperLeague+

Salford are back in action on home soil and will entertain the Dragons.

The Red Devils will forever be boosted by their Round 24 win over Warrington and will be hopeful of replicating a similar performance this Thursday.

The Dragons have won just one of their last eight Super League games, but head coach Joel Tomkins will be expecting a response from his French team.

Esan Marsters is included in Salford's 21-man squad for the first time since picking up a shoulder injury in early-July.

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Friday 5 September

St Helens v Wigan Warriors (20.00) – live on Sky Sports

It's a Derby Day double-header in St Helens with both of their men's and women's Super League sides taking on their oldest foes, Wigan Warriors, as The Final Charge continues to reach boiling point.

The teamsare set to raise the bar even higher when they meet at the Totally Wicked Stadium on Friday, as a box office clash awaits.

It’s the Warriors who will make the short trip over Billinge Hill in Rivals Round Returns, and with both of these dominant forces aiming for a season of silverware and success, we should have a true classic on our hands.

Wigan can keep up their pursuit of the League Leaders’ Shield with a Derby Day victory, but St Helens are a team who have really come to life in the second half of the season and are now fully focused on climbing up the table.

Who will be worthy winners of this brutal affair?

Paul Wellens has made two changes to the Saints squad he last named, with Morgan Knowles unavailable for selection due to a failed HIA, and George Delaney serving a one-match suspension.

Kyle Feldt is back available which is a huge boost, and comes into the side along with young loose forward Cole Marsh, who is included for the very first time.

Meanwhile, Matt Peet has named his strongest possible Wigan squad with a full starting 13. This sees the return of an the experienced Luke Thompson from injury.

Castleford Tigers v Wakefield Trinity (20.00) – live on Sky Sports+ and SuperLeague+

Cas and Wakey renew their fierce rivalry once more, but this time it’s going to be at the OneBore Stadium.

Trinity have enjoyed the spoils on both occasions this season – a nail-biting 13-12 victory in the first Rivals Round, before thumping their nearest and dearest 8-32 at Magic Weekend in Newcastle.

A crucial two points are up for grabs for Daryl Powell’s side, who will be doing everything they can to stay in sixth spot.

Can the Tigers enact revenge?

The game at the Tigers’ home will be contested for the Adam Watene Trophy.

For the visitors, Daryl Powell has made two changes to his 21-man squad that recorded a resounding win over Huddersfield Giants last week. 

Lachlan Walmsley returns after being rested, while Jack Croft returns to Wakefield following his loan with Salford.

Isaiah Vagana and Noah High drop out of the squad.

Saturday 6 September

Warrington Wolves v Leigh Leopards (15.00) – live on Sky Sports+ and SuperLeague+

On Saturday, Leigh Leopards, who are also jockeying for position to finish as high as they can before the Play-Offs, travel to Warrington in Rivals Round Returns - a game which is always fiery.

The Wolves' season may be over where the Play-Offs are concerned, but they still have their fans and pride to play for.

Their last two Super League encounters have been tight contests (20-16 and 18-14) with Leigh coming out on top both times.

The Leopards are, however, searching for their first away win at Warrington since 1987. Can they find a way to win like they have been doing all year?

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Sunday 7 September

Hull KR v Hull FC (3.05pm) – live on Sky Sports

It’s gearing up to be a cracker at Sewell Group Craven Park this Sunday, with the Black & Whites seeking revenge for their original Rivals Round defeat.

But there's much more on the line in this particular Hull Derby this time round, with every chance Hull KR could win the League Leaders’ Shield (provided the results go their way), while Hull FC are battling to keep their top six hopes alive.

It's also the 50th Super League Hull Derby! The Robins have won 25 and Hull FC have won 24...

With emotions and tensions running high, who will get the keys to the city and more?

Betfred Super League will return on Thursday Night for Rivals Round Returns (Round 25) - with all six games broadcasted LIVE as The Final Charge continues...

Fans can find all the relevant information and kick-off times for the Rivals Round fixtures here.

For information on SuperLeague+ and how to purchase your passes, click here.