Wigan Warriors star “touch and go” for St Helens clash whilst key man out for six weeks

Wigan Warriors today announced their 21-man squad for their top of the table clash with St Helens on Saturday at the Magic Weekend.

Already perhaps Super League’s biggest rivalry, the fact only two points separate the two teams at the top of the table means it takes on added significance and is a big game apt for the big day.

The result could go a long way to deciding the destination of the League Leaders’ Shield and determine who the front runners are for Old Trafford glory.

But Wigan have been forced into some changes due to injury with Thomas Leuluai suffering with a calf problem. Coach Matt Peet revealed that the Wigan skipper is set to be out for six weeks on the Wigan website today.

“Tommy has had a scan which shows a Grade 2 strain on his calf,” Peet said, “We have a few people to talk to before we can confirm a timeframe but we think around the six week mark.”

However, in a major boost for the Warriors Cade Cust is set to return for the first time since winning the Challenge Cup Final.

Peet confirmed he is in contention whilst Morgan Smithies is also back from a ban.

However one key player is still “touch and go” in the shape of Kaide Ellis with Peet confirming a late call will be made on the powerful forward.

Sam Halsall is the other player alongside Leuluai to drop out of the squad largely due to the two players back in the shape of Smithies and Cust.

St Helens meanwhile could have Konrad Hurrell, Will Hopoate and Louie McCarthy-Scarsbrook back. Hopoate’s return should see Jon Bennison replace the injured Tommy Makinson on the wing.

Prop Matty Lees escaped a ban for a high tackle against Catalans.

You can read Matt Peet’s full thoughts on the injuries here.