It’s been a long debate this season about who is the best Wigan fullback as both Zak Hardaker and Bevan French have more than shown their credentials.
And, for Wigan boss Adrian Lam, it’s a “difficult” choice.
“Obviously, Bevan played there Monday night and did a pretty good job, but it’s just a communication process between me, Bevan and Zak about how it all pans out during the season,” Lam said.
“It is difficult; it’s just about managing the individual and trying to make sure we all do what’s best for the team in that particular game.
“We’re fortunate to have two great fullbacks and they both bring great qualities to our team.
“It’s a really happy group; we’re top of the league with St Helens and I just feel we’ve got some players to come back and we’re going to be hitting our straps in the next few weeks.”
Lam also gave an injury update on those at risk of missing this week’s fixture against Salford.
“We’ve got a couple of players at risk of missing the game in Willie Isa and Morgan Smithies, but we’ll get a check on them tomorrow.
“You’ve got to make sure that you’re playing players that are 100% fit – we don’t have a big squad, but the players that will come in will do a job.
“Tommy Leuluai should be available for next week as could Oliver Gildart, but Liam Marshall is probably three or four weeks after that.”
Whilst the NRL seems to be cracking down heavily on high tackles and late hits, Lam believes that Super League already has the right procedure.
“The potential to have a high shot sin-binned is the right rule and we need to make sure we don’t overreact.
“I think we’re right where we are and we don’t need to change it – if it’s a high shot it’s a penalty and if it’s intentional then it’s a sin-bin or red card.
“I think we’ve got the right balance; as a coach I’ve never been a fan of hitting the player around the head.
“In today’s modern game, giving away a penalty for a high shot is unacceptable – we need to make sure we still protect players.”
