THOMAS HEMINGWAY'S hopes of making a first Super League appearance of the season have been dramatically increased.
The 19-year-old half-back, pictured left, was included in coach Jon Sharp's initial 20-man squad for tomorrow's trip to Harlequins earlier in the week.
He was given the nod ahead of Steve Snitch, who has paid the highest price for the Giants' awful performance against Wigan Warriors last Saturday.
Utility forward Snitch will instead play for the Senior Academy side at Harlequins on Sunday.
At the start of the week, Hemingway may also have expected to have played in the Sunday fixture.
But with captain and stand-off Chris Thorman now ruled out for six weeks with a broken thumb, Hemingway is back in the senior frame.
"The injury to Chris may have opened the door for Thomas," said Sharp.
"It had always been our intention to take Thomas to the capital with us.
"The aim was to take 17, plus one forward, one back and one ball-player, which in this instance was Thomas. That gave us cover for all positions.
"But all of a sudden, Thomas is no longer cover, he is a genuine option.
"And that's fine by me, because I would have no hesitation in playing him.
"Thomas covered for us superbly well at full-back at London last year, and I know he wouldn't let us down if he was called into the side tomorrow."
Whether Hemingway plays or not, all the media spotlight will focus on Henry Paul's return to rugby league with Harlequins and his showdown with brother Robbie.
Henry yesterday signed for Quins after a switch from top RU club Gloucester, and he is set to make his debut against the Giants.
"It's a big opportunity for me and I can't wait to get out there and play," he said.
"I also can't wait to meet Robbie!"
Although the Super League and Senior Academy sides are in London this weekend, the Junior Academy entertain Harlequins at the DRAM Centre on Sunday (2.00).
