Hull KR and Wigan are set to renew their rivalry in an intriguing Betfred Challenge Cup final at Wembley on Saturday. The two teams have contested each of the last two Super League Grand Finals, and this marks their first meeting in the Challenge Cup final at the iconic venue.
Potential Return for Bevan French
Wigan playmaker Bevan French could make a remarkable return just three months after sustaining a hamstring injury that required surgery. The 30-year-old was named in Matt Peet's 21-man squad, raising hopes of a shock appearance.
Meanwhile, defending treble-winners Hull KR are determined to secure the first stage of a rousing send-off for Willie Peters, the architect of the club's dramatic revival. Peters will leave to join the new NRL franchise PNG Chiefs at the end of the campaign.
Rovers' Recent Ascendancy
Rovers have shrugged off a rocky start to the current campaign to hit form at the right time. Stand-off Tyrone May, arguably the outstanding player of the season so far, admits confirmation of Peters' departure has helped fuel his side's fight to retain their trophies.
"It was a bit of a gut-punch but I'm happy for him," said May of the Australian head coach, who hauled him to east Hull from Catalans Dragons in 2024. "Selfishly I wanted him to stay but as a mate away from the field I think he deserves it. I don't see anyone who lives and breathes the game harder than him."
May added: "He's given me more responsibility. I think he knew I was a bit different to the players he'd had before, and he kept giving me more and more. Knowing that this is his last time at Wembley makes it an important one, not just for him, but for the team to prove that we're not just one-hit wonders."
Wigan's Young Talent
Wigan coach Matt Peet has full confidence in young winger Noah Hodkinson, who has played only four Super League games since stepping in for the injured Liam Marshall in March. His ascent mirrors that of Zach Eckersley, who had played the same number of top-flight games before replacing Adam Keighran in the 2024 final.
"Noah and Jack have earned the right to play this week," said Peet, referring also to Jack Farrimond, another academy prospect who has moved into the halves to replace French. "I think Noah has been outstanding since he's come into the team. He's only played a few games for us but he's taken it all in his stride."
Team News
Peet has remained tight-lipped over whether French will play a significant part in the Wembley showpiece, which could potentially put him at risk for the remainder of the Super League campaign. Rovers' key doubt is over forward Jai Whitbread, who did not travel with the squad to London on Thursday as his partner is due to give birth, and is understood to be unlikely to figure in the final as a result.
