GIANTS officials are awaiting confirmation from the RFL that a planned pre-season clash at Leeds Rhinos can go ahead.
Leeds have announced the two sides will be going head-to-head in Francis Cummins' testimonial game at Headingley on Sunday, February 8 (3.00).
The fixture comes two weeks before the Giants open their Super League campaign at home to Castleford Tigers.
It would obviously be the final warm-up clash for coach Jon Sharp's side before the start of the new campaign.
But Giants chief executive Ralph Rimmer is hoping Leeds have not jumped the gun in announcing the fixture now.
"Our initial understanding was that pre-season games could not take place on Challenge Cup weekends, which is what February 8 will be," said Rimmer.
"We've told Leeds we would be delighted to play in the game, as they kindly turned out for Darren Turner's testimonial at the McAlpine in January.
"I can only assume Leeds have been given special permission off the RFL to play on this date, because we've certainly not heard anything official."
Giants boss Sharp is also hoping the fixture goes ahead and he has the chance to lock horns with former McAlpine coach Tony Smith.
It will give him one final and vital look at the way his side is gelling before the start of Super League.
"A game like this would be a great test at an ideal time," said Sharp.
"I'm satisfied with the way the start of the Super League fixtures have fallen for us.
"Hopefully, the Leeds game will put us in good shape for these opening fixtures."
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