Essex Eels face an injury crisis as they prepare for their Challenge Cup debut on Saturday.

The Pro-Plumb sponsored club entertain Elland at their new home in Gloucester Park, Basildon, in the first round of the prestigious knock-out competition.

But Eels will be without forward Lee Brown and stand-off Kieran McTaggert, while half-back Adam Keating is doubtful along with forwards Jim Harman and Adam Butterfield.

Now head coach Stuart Hogg is hoping for one of his overseas signings to make an early appearance in time for Saturday's match.