Wigan Warriors travel to the south of France this evening to take on Catalans Dragons in a clash that is stacked in significance. For the Warriors the objective is simple as they strive to peg Hull KR back in the race for the League Leaders’ Shield.
The Robins went two points clear at the top with their win on Friday night, but Wigan can restore parity with a victory ahead of next week’s showdown at the Brick Community Stadium. Catalans were also impacted by Friday night’s results with Leigh Leopards win over Warrington pushing them out of the top six.
The Dragons will move up to fifth with a win over the Warriors, though, and at this stage of the season that would provide a massive boost as they prepare to enter the final month of the campaign. Ahead of the clash, we take a look at the team news.
Catalans Dragons
Steve McNamara has named Ben Lam in his squad for the first time since joining the club from rugby union. Lam knew where the try line was in the 15-man code and he’ll be looking to make an impact, should he make his debut at the Stade Gilbert Brutus.
Catalans will be without Matt Ikavalu, though, due to a pec injury, while Jarrod Wallace remains sidelined with a knee issue. Tariq Sims is suspended, Tom Johnstone has a leg injury and Sam Tomkins continues to miss out with a hamstring problem. Jordan Abdull, Manu Ma’u and Tanguy Zenon are also out.
Wigan Warriors
Matt Peet has already confirmed that Bevan French will feature in the contest after naming the Australian in his 21-man squad for the first time in almost two months. That comes as a huge boost for the Warriors as they look to defend their Super League crown over the next couple of months.
Harry Smith misses out through suspension, though, while Brad O’Neill (knee), Willie Isa (ankle), Liam Farrell (calf) and Mike Cooper (head) haven’t travelled either.
Catalans Dragons
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