Warrington Wolves will be looking to make it to a third successive Challenge Cup Final appearance this afternoon, but they first have to take on an in-form Hull KR side.
The Wolves have beaten Huddersfield Giants and Leigh Leopards to get to Wembley, but they face their toughest semi-final test of those three years, taking on a Robins side looking to go back-to-back at Wembley.
The game is a repeat of last year’s final, and after being on the losing side, Sam Burgess’ men will want to not only get revenge on the treble winners, but to make 2026 a ‘third time lucky’, getting to the final and finally coming away with the trophy.
But before they get to the game, boss Burgess has a few selection headaches to ponder over, including injury returnees and some youngsters who have put themselves in contention for a place in the side.
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Predicting Warrington Wolves’ Challlenge Cup semi-final side
With Cai Taylor-Wray injured, Josh Thewlis is expected to line-up at full-back, moving from his natural position on the wing. Thewlis missed last week’s game against Huddersfield Giants, and should he come back in would be one of two returnees this afternoon.
Albert Hopoate played alongisde Matty Ashton on each flank last time out, with Toby King and Josh Smith partnering in the centres. That is expected to continue this week, with all four of those players crossing for tries against the Giants.
No George Williams means that Ewan Irwin will play in the biggest game of his career as he partners Marc Sneyd in the halves. Irwin is one of the biggest prospects in Super League today, and that talent will certainly be tested this afternoon.
Moving into the pack and Luke Yates is set to feature after missing the last three, with Liam Bryne and Danny Walker.
The back row and subs bench should remain unchanged, with the likes of Sam Stone and Ben Currie being in sensational form to start the season.
Warrington Wolves predicted XIII: Josh Thewlis, Albert Hopoate, Toby King, Josh Smith, Matty Ashton, Ewan Irwin, Marc Sneyd, Luke Yates, Danny Walker, Liam Byrne, Sam Stone, James Bentley, Ben Currie
Bench:Â Toafofoa Sipley, Jordan Crowther, Joe Philbin, Kelepi Tanginoa
