TWO WORLDS collide as Super League and the NRL go head to head this weekend.
Warrington face Brisbane Broncos, coached by England boss Wayne Bennett, in the World Club Series.
Then Wigan go to be named the best club side on the planet when they face Aussie champs Cronulla Sharks in the World Club Challenge, 30 years after they defeated Manly Sea Eagles.
A lot is riding on these games, with many seeing it as a chance for Super League to prove it is worthy of competing against the NRL.
Both Warrington coach Tony Smith and Wigan owner Ian Lenagan have said they would be willing to head Down Under to face Australian sides, with the latter even talking about a possible move for the competition to America.
Whatever happens, it promises to be a hell of a ride and maybe, just maybe, some English success.
WHEN ARE THE GAMES AND WHERE ARE THEY TELEVISED?
Warrington face Brisbane tonight at 8pm at the Halliwell Jones Stadium and Wigan take on Cronulla at 3pm tomorrow at the DW Stadium. Warrington v Brisbane is on Sky Sports 1 and Wigan v Cronulla is on Sky Sports 2.
WHY ONLY TWO GAMES, DIDN’T THERE USED TO BE THREE?
There were but six successive wins from Australian sides – including some thumpings – did little for the prospect of flying across the world to play.
Cronulla against Wigan was a given because the World Club Challenge is now a mainstay of the calendar.
But getting NRL sides interested in playing another game or two was difficult. Thankfully, Brisbane put their hands up.
WHICH PLAYERS CAN WE SEE?
THERE will certainly be some talent on show in both games.
Brisbane have brought enigmatic Anthony Milford, who is capable of just about anything, over with them, along with Aussie back-rower Sam Thaiday.
Cronulla also have stars in their ranks, with star half James Maloney expected to pull the strings, but it is in the forwards their power lies.
Andrew Fifita, whose brother David plays for Wakefield, and enforcer Paul Gallen are matches for anyone – former England international Chris Heighington is also expected to pose a threat.
But Warrington and Wigan also have talents looking to do the business.
New signing Kevin Brown is expected to make his debut, while the likes of Daryl Clark, Mike Cooper, Andre Savelio and Joe Westerman can challenge just about anyone.
Wigan also have plenty looking to step up. Can John Bateman lead the charge? Can Joe Burgess show why he tried his luck in the NRL? Can Lewis Tierney find a finish on the wing?
It promises to be a big weekend for rugby league.
Leave a comment