Lewis Dodd dropped as the St Helens midfielder was omitted for the rookie defender

St Helens have withdrawn half-back Lewis Dodd for their clash with Wigan Warriors. Dodd, who will head to the NRL at the end of the season to seal a deal with the South Sydney Rabbitohs, has been left out at the expense of youngster Harry Robertson, who will make his debut for the club in one of the toughest stages. possible.

Dodd’s recent performances have been scrutinized and head coach Paul Wellens has decided to remove him from the firing line as he takes on his rivals. As a result, Jack Welsby has been moved into the innings, where he partners with Jonny Lomax. Daryl Clark returns to the side from injury to start at hooker.

Dodd, 22, has been a mainstay for the Saints since his return from injury ahead of the 2023 season. He scored the winning goal in one of the club’s best ever results, while i- they beat the Penrith Panthers to win the World Club Challenge last year.

But after a strong start to the year, Dodd’s performances have dipped in recent weeks, which has seen Wellens make the switch and instead put his faith in debutant Robertson, an 18-year-old who has caught the eye in the reserves and academy. He also represented England at academy level.

Saints, who have lost their last two games, will fall six points behind Wigan if they lose tonight.

Saints squad: Harry Robertson, Tee Ritson, Mark Percival, Ben Davies, Waqa Blake, Jack Welsby, Jonny Lomax, George Delaney, Daryl Clark, Matty Lees, Curtis Sironen, James Bell, Agnatius Paasi. Subs: Sam Royle, Jake Burns, Jonny Vaughan, Noah Stephens.

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