Barba looking forward to ‘open’ Super League

St Helens superstar signing Ben Barba can’t wait to make his debut for the club in next week’s derby against Wigan.

The 28-year-old signed for Saints in May but has had to watch on the sidelines as he completes a 12-match ban for recreational drug use.

After waiting patiently for his chance, Barba is excited to make his debut and is a fan of the open style of Super League.

“The past couple of weeks have been quite tough for me as I try to build my fitness back up again,” he told the St Helens website.

“It has allowed me to sit back and watch some games from the outside and get a read on how some of these boys play.

“It’s hard to compare (Super League to the NRL) but I think this game is a lot more open, either that or we have got a really good hooker in James Roby.

“There are a lot more chances in and around the ruck, but I’m not really going to know the finer details until I go out there and experience it.”

The former Dally M Medal winner could not have picked a better game to make his debut as Saints take on arch-rivals Wigan in a huge clash at Langtree Park.

Despite the Warriors playing Hull at Wembley this weekend, Barba knows how difficult it will be and is well aware of the rivalry between the two clubs.

“It’s going to be a tough game, I know they are coming off a Challenge Cup Final and whether they win or lose I’m sure Shaun (Wane) will have them fired up and ready to go.

“The one thing I know about is this Saints-Wigan rivalry is pretty strong. Even just seeing some of the kids here, they are telling me I can’t lose against Wigan. I will be doing the best I can to keep them happy.

“Our aim is to finish in that top four and we’ve got a side that can go all the way.”