The Challenge Cup semi-final draw is to take place today at halftime in the final quarter-final between Wakefield and Wigan.
The winner of that game will join St Helens, Hull KR and Huddersfield in the final four meaning we could be treated to a Saints-Wigan derby in the semi-finals at Elland Road or perhaps a West Yorkshire derby between Huddersfield and Wakefield as they both look to end decade long waits for Challenge Cup success.
Today’s draw will be broadcast on BBC Two during halftime at Belle Vue and the ball numbers have now been revealed.
Hull KR who booked their place in the semi-finals by defeating last year’s finalists Castleford 34-10 will be ball one. Meanwhile, current holders St Helens enter the draw as ball two. The Saints will be hoping to replicate their success in the cup during the 2000s when they won it three years in a row from 2006-08. They are also chasing the treble in 2022 so it will be interesting what hurdle gets put in their way as they pursue a clean sweep of silverware this year.
Huddersfield defeated Hull FC 24-16 yesterday in a fantastic cup tie and they now enter their first semi-final in the competition for 10 years. They’re ball three whilst the winner of Wakefield and Wigan will be ball four.
Here’s the full list:
Ball One: Hull KR
Ball Two: St Helens
Ball Three: Huddersfield Giants
Ball Four: Wakefield Trinity / Wigan Warriors
The draw will likely take place some time after 3:15 this afternoon and will also include the draw for the women’s semi-finals.
Here’s the ball numbers for the women’s draw as St Helens look to retain their crown:
Ball One: Leeds Rhinos / Warrington Wolves
Ball Two: St Helens / Huddersfield Giants
Ball Three: York City Knights / Oulton Raidettes
Ball Four: Featherstone Rovers / Wigan Warriors
