The future of Wigan Warriors’ hooker Sam Powell

Sam Powell’s contract is set to end at the end of November – like all rugby league players who don’t have a deal announced for 2022 at this time of the year.

But, he looks destined to stay at hometown club Wigan Warriors after he was given the number 9 shirt in the club’s squad numbers update yesterday afternoon.

Powell, who joined Wigan at the age of 16 from Wigan St. Pats, spent four years in the club’s academy, playing a key role in the Warriors’ academy Grand Final victory over rivals Warrington.

After debuting for the Cherry and Whites in August 2012, Powell nailed down a starting spot during the 2014 season with a long-term contract his just reward.

With two Grand Final victories under his belt – in 2016 and 2018 – with Shaun Wane at the helm, the hooker will be reunited with his former boss ahead of the 2022 Super League season.

Wane has since taken a leadership role at the club with Powell expected to be one of the key, experienced men in the Wigan ranks as new head coach Matty Peet looks to improve on the Warriors’ poor showing in 2021.

Wigan finished in fourth place, but had a dismal end to the season with an 8-0 home loss to the Leeds Rhinos ending their play-off run.