ZAK HARDAKER has been sensationally axed from Castleford’s first ever Grand Final for a ‘breach of club rules’.
The full-back, who came second in the Steve Prescott Man of Steel prize on Tuesday, was set to face former club Leeds at Old Trafford on Saturday.
But the 25-year-old has been surprisingly left out of coach Daryl Powell’s squad after crossing the line.
Hardaker’s axing has led to frenzied speculation about why he will not face the Rhinos in Cas’ first ever Grand Final.
However, Castleford insist they had no choice.
A statement said: “Zak Hardaker is unavailable for selection due to a breach of club rules.
“The club will make no further comment at this point as full attention is focused on Saturday’s Grand Final.”
Joel Monaghan or Jy Hitchcox are likeliest to replace Hardaker, with a chance that winger Greg Eden will move to full-back.
Meanwhile, Stevie Ward has a chance of making a miraculous recovery and playing for Leeds, just eight days after dislocating his shoulder.
The back-rower appeared to be out of the final after suffering the injury against Hull but he has been named in their 19-man squad for the big day.
Leave a comment