After the latest round of Challenge Cup action, a number of players stood out, and those stars have been selected in our Team of the Week.
Eight Super League teams made it through to the next stage, though the likes of Leeds Rhinos and Hull FC were unsuccessful in their efforts of reaching the quarter finals.
Wakefield Trinity and Wigan Warriors kicked off the action on Friday night, securing wins over the Rhinos and Bradford Bulls respectively.
York Knights, Warrington Wolves and Catalans Dragons all progressed against Championship opposition, whilst St Helens defeated Castleford Tigers.
Leigh Leopards overcame the Black and Whites, whilst reigning Champions Hull KR also kept their title defence alive with victory over Huddersfield Giants.
With those results in mind, here is who we have selected for this week’s Team of the Week.
Challenge Cup Team of the Week
Full-back: Charlie Staines (Catalans Dragons)
Super League’s highest metre maker continued his sublime form into the Cup competition, and scored two tries in victory over Championship Oldham. Staines was also influential in a number of other tries, as the Dragons put on a sublime attacking display to reach the last eight.
Wing: Tom Johnstone (Wakefield Trinity)
Though he didn’t get on the scoresheet, Johnstone returned from injury in impressive fashion, racking up 191 metres, most of any player in the match, whilst he also worked with Jack Sinfield to set up an excellent Oli Pratt try on the stroke of half-time.
Centre: Josh Smith (Warrington Wolves)
The former Brisbane Tigers man came to the UK relatively unknown, but after another try double this weekend, he has become a consistent three-quarter player for Sam Burgess’ side.
Centre: Peta Hiku (Hull KR)
The former New Zealand international recorded a try and an assist against the Giants, but had his hand in plenty more of the Robins’ scores, including making the break that allowed Tom Amone to score.
Wing: Lewis Murphy (St Helens)
The former Wakefield man crossed twice on the left edge and linked up with Tristan Sailor on both occasions, as Paul Rowley’s side started to show off some of their attacking flair.
Stand-off: Mikey Lewis (Hull KR)
For the second week running Lewis makes this side after another two-try haul against the Giants. The 2024 Man of Steel also made two line breaks and ran for 122 metres.
Scrum-half: Jack Sinfield (Wakefield Trinity)
The son of Leeds legend, Kevin, came back to haunt his former club, and produced an excellent display yet again, as he continues to excel under Daryl Powell.
Prop: Luke Thompson (Wigan Warriors)
After missing out on Ashes selection in the Autumn, Thompson certainly has the bit between his teeth this season to regain a spot in the national side. He crossed for the opening try and made over 100 metres in victory over the Bulls.
Hooker: Harvey Smith (Wakefield Trinity)
The 20-year-old hooker featured heavily for Powell, as he covered for the injured Tyson Smoothy. The wonderkid put on an impressive showing, as not only did he guide his side around the field but also made the most tackles with 37, the most of any Wakefield player.
Prop: Ky Rodwell (Wakefield Trinity)
Not only did the Australian score the match-winning try against Leeds, Rodwell carried extremely well, making 15 runs, and was part of a dominant Wakefield pack that helped the side reach the quarter finals.
Back row: Zac Lipowicz (Catalans Dragons)
The former Penrith man crossed for a try and an assist in the win, and is proving to be a key part of the Catalans pack in the absence of the injured Franck Maria.
Back row: Rhyse Martin (Hull KR)
The ex-Leeds man ran for 119 metres against Huddersfield, and also provided a line break and a brilliant kick that allowed Lewis to score his second try.
Loose forward: King Vuniyayawa (York Knights)
Jordan Thompson’s injury meant that the Knights had to find a new number 13, and the on-loan Fijian stepped up to the task, crossing twice in victory over Keighley Cougars.
