Star man missing as Huddersfield and Wigan name squads

Huddersfield Giants and Wigan Warriors have named their initial squads for their clash at the John Smith’s Stadium this Friday.

The last time the two sides met was at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, where the Warriors won their 20^th Challenge Cup final.

The Giants, who defeated Castleford Tigers last Friday live on Sky Sports, make three changes to their preliminary squad. Kevin Naiqama, Owen Trout and Seb Ikahihifo return to the side.

That trio replace the injured Theo Fages, as well as Joe Greenwood and Matty English who both featured from the bench in last week’s victory. The absence of Fages in particular is a big blow to Ian Watson though Will Pryce is now expected to start in his place.

Matty Peet’s Wigan side is unchanged from the defeat to Catalans last Thursday. Despite picking up a gruesome injury in the game, Willie Isa remains in the squad. Jake Wardle and Toby King both return to face their former club.

Both sides have two victories this season, and are third and fourth in the table, the Warriors only ahead on points difference.