Zak Hardaker given interesting position in Wigan Warriors side for Leeds Rhinos clash

Zak Hardaker is well known for his versatility, playing at both fullback and centre throughout his career.

When he first popped his head up as a youngster at Featherstone Rovers, the Yorkshireman came through on the wing, impressing with his speed and ability to finish well.

And, now Hardaker has taken up that same position for the Wigan Warriors in their clash against Leeds Rhinos live on Sky Sports tonight.

Jai Field is at fullback whilst Kai Pearce-Paul takes the right centre position – two spots which Hardaker would perhaps feel more at home.

📋 𝙏𝙀𝘼𝙈 𝙉𝙀𝙒𝙎

🔒 Matt Peet has locked in his team to face @leedsrhinos!

🔄 @zakhardaker1 starts on the right wing as @PartingtonOllie comes in on the bench.#WWRL #SLWIGLEE 🍒⚪ pic.twitter.com/Apvf3lwGk7

— Wigan Warriors 🍒⚪️ (@WiganWarriorsRL) February 18, 2022

Let’s face it though, Wigan were superb in round one so very few will be questioning new head coach Matty Peet’s squad changes.

Peet is one of four new changes in the Warriors’ coaching set-up with Lee Briers and Sean O’Loughlin the assistant coaches with Shaun Wane taking on a leadership role.

For ex-Welsh international Briers, it was a toss up between Wigan and a job in the NRL.

“I’ve been friends with Matty Peet for numerous years now and we worked together with the England academy.

“Matt had an inkling that he was going to be head coach and he wanted me to be with him.

“It was strange times because there was a bit of interest from Wigan but there was no concrete contract there until after the season.

“I was close to joining another club in the NRL but that didn’t just get over the line.

“So, I had two clubs  – one in England which is one of, if not the most, successful clubs in England – and then probably the biggest one in Australia so it was really humbling to have those clubs show interest.

“But it just felt right to be at Wigan – it’s a massive club and I thank Matty, the chairman and Kris Radlinski for showing confidence in me and giving me the opportunity and hopefully I can repay that.”