Hull KR fans will expect great things of Mikey Lewis at Wembley, as their team faces Wigan Warriors in the Challenge Cup final. This marks the third consecutive season these two sides have met in a major final, with Wigan winning the 2024 Super League Grand Final and Hull KR taking last year's title. Both teams are the most recent world champions, having beaten NRL opposition in the World Club Challenge.
Generational Rivalry Reaches New Heights
For the first time, the rivals clash in the Challenge Cup decider, with Wigan seeking a record-extending 22nd victory and Hull KR aiming for only their second. Wigan are arguably the underdogs this time, despite their history. Hull KR's rise to the pinnacle of rugby league, culminating in a historic treble last year, has made them the hunted rather than the hunters.
Young Players' Pay Highlighted as Key Issue
While stars like Mikey Lewis and Jai Field will shine, the story beneath is about Wigan's young talents. Up to 10 academy products could feature in Wigan's 17, including 20-year-olds Noah Hodkinson and Jack Farrimond. However, Super League's salary cap rules mean these players earn relatively little—those under 21 earning £30,000 or less don't count towards the £2.1m cap. This forces clubs to underpay young stars or risk losing them.
Wigan CEO Kris Radlinski highlighted the issue: "Noah could get man-of-the-match but there's nothing within the rules to allow me to pay him any more money." He contrasted this with the NRL, where minimum salaries are much higher, and warned that elite players might choose other careers over rugby.
Hull KR's Hunger Remains Despite Success
Hull KR CEO Paul Lakin emphasized the team's drive: "Good teams do it once; great teams do it multiple times. We won the World Club Challenge, and we want the lot again." The final comes at a crucial time for Super League, with a new TV deal for 2027 under negotiation, and both teams at their peak. This promises to be an all-time Wembley classic.
