The Bradford Bulls have been plunged into a significant injury crisis with 15 players currently out of action, the club confirmed on Wednesday. The squad sustained further blows over the weekend when Mitch Souter and Cameron Bate were ruled out for the season.
New season-ending injuries deepen concerns
Souter suffered a syndesmosis injury just three minutes from the end of the reserves' game against London Broncos, while Bate sustained serious knee and hamstring damage while playing for Salford. Manager Kurt Haggerty now faces a difficult selection and squad-management challenge ahead of Sunday's Championship meeting with Leeds.
Availability and longer-term absentees
Despite the mounting absence list, the club confirmed that Phoenix Steinwede is available for the game at the weekend. Other players may return in the coming rounds: Andy Ackers is a possibility for Sunday, while Loghan Lewis and Jamie Gill could be considered for the Round 21 fixture against Hull KR. Rowan Milnes, Joe Keyes and Esan Marsters are described as hopeful of returning before the end of the season.
But the Bulls will definitely be without a number of key names for the immediate fixtures:
- Eribe Doro — season
- Sam Hallas — season
- Ed Chamberlain — season
- Mitch Souter — season (syndesmosis)
- Cameron Bate — season (knee and hamstring)
- Waqa Blake — knee (no return date)
- Brandon Douglas — no return date
- Jayden Okunbor — no return date
- Dan Russell — out for Leeds clash
| Player | Current status |
|---|---|
| Mitch Souter | Season-ending syndesmosis injury |
| Cameron Bate | Season-ending knee and hamstring injuries |
| Phoenix Steinwede | Available for selection |
Implications for the squad and upcoming fixtures
With so many players unavailable, the Bulls' coaching staff must adapt tactics and rotate personnel. The shortage affects both the first team and depth options, increasing reliance on youngsters and fringe players to step up. Haggerty will have to finalise his squad ahead of a challenging fixture against Leeds on Sunday, where fitness and form will be under scrutiny.
The club's official communications list the absentees and potential returnees but give no firm dates for several injured players. Supporters awaiting team news should expect late changes as the club manages recovery plans and short-term call-ups.
Further updates on team selection and injury progress are likely to be provided by the club in the build-up to the Leeds match.
