Men

Fantasy League: Ins and Outs for Round 2

18 Feb 2026

The opening round of the 2026 Betfred Super League season Hit Different - in more ways than one!

Some familiar faces returned, along with the new, and we saw exactly what the future might hold for the league with stellar performances from plenty of exciting prospects…

But what does all this mean for your Betfred Super League Fantasy team heading into the second round of the season?

Let’s dive into some Ins and Outs you should can consider ahead of Round 2, so you can build the best team ahead of the Thursday evening deadline...

If you haven't already, there is still time to get involved in Fantasy League here!

Ins:

Jed Cartwright (100k)

The second rower had to miss the season opener on Saturday due to concussion protocols, but should be in line to make an appearance in Round 2 as Hull FC travel across the Pennines to face the Warriors.

Cartwright scored a brace at The Brick Community Stadium last time out, so could be worth adding into your Fantasy side.

Umyla Hanley (130k)

The Leopards' strike centre was part of the 21-man squad against the Rhinos but didn't get to feature. However, he could be worth putting in your Fantasy team sooner rather than later, as he’s bound to be a vital asset in Leigh’s chances of going all the way this season.

Jake Connor (170k)

A return is on the cards for Steve Prescott MBE Man of Steel Jake Connor as Leeds prepare for their first home fixture of the season, hosting York Knights at AMT Headingley Stadium this Friday.

He missed Round 1, but is bound to earn you all the important Fantasy points in Round 2.

Connor comes with a hefty price tag, however, so you may have to do some shifting so you can afford the Rhinos' star playmaker.

But be sure to use your four transfers per month wisely...

It's also worth nothing that four more players have now returned to the Rhinos side for Round 2 - Maika Sivo, Jeremiah Mata'utia, Cameron Smith and Keenan Palasia.

Could any of these a shout for your Fantasy League team?

Outs:

Ben Garcia (130k)

A popular choice among Fantasy players, the fiery Dragons captain picked up a one match suspension for late contact in his side’s opening clash against the Giants.

This mean's he'll miss their trip to West Yorkshire on Friday Night when Catalans face off against the Bulls. Which loose forward will you be swapping him out with?

Dan Russell (110k)

This Bulls forward sustained an unfortunate knee injury during Bradford’s return to the big time last Saturday, which puts him out of action for the foreseeable.

Jack Welsby (160k)

The Saints and England full-back is another Fantasy fan favourite but is set to be out on the side-lines for four months after sustaining a shoulder injury whilst scoring his side's first try of the season against the Wolves.

Welsby's absence will free you up a huge chunk of £160k, but will you be spending similar on your new full-back?

Or have you got the funds to move more of your team around?

Ligi Sao (110k)

The Black & Whites prop won’t take part in Rounds 2 and 3 of the season. The Samoan committed a dangerous tackle in Hull FC's win and has picked up a two-match suspension as the consequence.

Blake Taaffe (130k)

The new Tigers’ recruit had impressed his new employers since joining them at the end of last year.

Sadly, Taaffe has barely had time to get going, as the 26-year-old suffered a heart-breaking and season-ending ACL injury in Cas’ Round 1 defeat to the Warriors.

Castleford Tigers are sad to report that Blake Taaffe suffered a ruptured ACL in Sunday's game with Wigan Warriors, and he will miss the rest of the Super League campaign.

We're all behind you, Blake!https://t.co/fbkb4ZnDCe pic.twitter.com/J3HDtWK2AK
— Castleford Tigers (@CTRLFC) February 17, 2026

Jake Wardle (150k)

The Warriors centre, who scored a try in their season opener against the Tigers, has sustained an injury to his MCL, keeping him out of the side for three months.

The question now is who steps into the void left by the England international - for both Matt Peet and your Fantasy team?

REMINDER!

The Aussies have returned to English shores for the 2026 Betfred World Club Challenge as NRL Premiers Brisbane Broncos take on Super League champions Hull KR this Thursday night.

This means none of the Robins players will be eligible in Round 2 of Fantasy. Similarly, no Warrington players will be eligible to score points, due to the Wolves being Hull KR's scheduled Round 2 opponents. This game has been postponed.