Bugger. I'm not sure what EOC will go for as we are going to need somebody in long term. I hope we don't go down the route of dual reg players again.

One potential option is Oakes but he hasn't played a competitive game since 2022 so will need some time to get up to speed. Another option is to give Mackenzie Scurr a chance on the wing. The other option would be to bring in somebody in on loan/free agent.

If Oakes is short of competitive rugby why isn't he picked for the reserves this week?

It sounded like Oakes was a bit off being ready for selection in a recent O'Carroll interview. Can probably make do for this weekend but shame to lose Blackmore so early in the season with big games right from the start.

Can't even borrow Tindall from Leeds either! I admire the fact we aren't looking to dual reg this year but we could certainly do with a back up plan as we are definitely light in a few positions already!

How long is Scurr out for?

EOC mentioned in the Keighley preview that "worst case scenario its 3-4 weeks" for Scurr.