Hull KR and Wigan are preparing for a historic first meeting in the Challenge Cup decider at Wembley. This match marks their third consecutive season facing off in a major final. The record stands at one win each, with Wigan’s victory in the 2024 Super League Grand Final and Hull KR’s revenge at Old Trafford last year.
A Chance to Define a Generational Rivalry
The final presents an opportunity for either Hull KR or Wigan to solidify their position as one of the modern era’s great teams. Both teams have recently been crowned champions of Super League and have also beaten NRL opposition in the World Club Challenge. Wigan, however, enters the match as arguably the underdogs.
Hull KR’s rise culminated in a historic treble last year, marking their first time at the pinnacle of rugby league since the 1980s. To secure back-to-back Wembley wins, they must deny Wigan a record-extending 22nd Challenge Cup final victory. Hull KR have won it twice.
Youth Set to Shine Amidst Salary Cap Concerns
Wigan is expected to give youth a chance, a prominent theme leading up to the game. While stars like Hull KR’s Mikey Lewis and Wigan’s Jai Field are expected to feature, the potential inclusion of Bevan French adds another layer. French was a surprise addition to Wigan’s 21-man squad, recovering from a hamstring tear ahead of schedule.
The focus also lies on Wigan’s emerging talents, Noah Hodkinson and Jack Farrimond. As many as 10 academy products could feature in Wigan’s 17, including Hodkinson, who is making only his eighth senior appearance. However, Super League’s salary cap rules mean these young players could be playing in a major game while earning relatively little.
Salary Cap Issues Highlighted
Super League rules stipulate that players under 21 earning £30,000 or less do not count towards the £2.1m salary cap. This can lead to clubs underpaying their best young players to spend on high-profile talent elsewhere. Wigan’s chief executive, Kris Radlinski, believes the situation highlights the need for change.
Radlinski said it’s an impossible challenge. He said that even if Noah Hodkinson gets man of the match, there’s nothing within the rules to allow the club to pay him any more money.
Squad Lists
- Wigan: Field; Eckersley, Keighran, Wardle, Hodkinson; Farrimond, Smith; Havard, O’Neill, Thompson, Nsemba, Walters, Partington. Interchange Mago, Farrell, Ellis, French.
- Hull KR: Broadbent; Davies, Hiku, Gildart, Burgess; Lewis, May; Sue, Lawton, Amone, Hadley, Batchelor, Minchella. Interchange Whitbread, Litten, Luckley, Martin.
The Challenge Cup final marks a moment in time for either Hull KR or Wigan to solidify a position as one of the modern era’s great teams.