Wigan Warriors and Hull KR will meet in the Challenge Cup final at Wembley Stadium on Saturday, the first time the two clubs contest the tournament decider.
The match highlights a growing modern rivalry, with both sides having won domestic trophies and World Club Challenge titles in recent seasons.
Hull KR enter as reigning Super League champions after a domestic treble last season. Wigan, record 21-time Challenge Cup winners, aim to reclaim the trophy despite injury disruptions.
Bevan French's Potential Return
A major talking point is the possible return of Wigan half-back Bevan French.
Named in the 21-man squad just 12 weeks into an expected 16-week recovery from a hamstring injury, his inclusion could be a game-changer.
Wigan legend Martin Offiah described the matchup as an "unofficial World Club Challenge" on BBC Radio Manchester, noting both teams have beaten top Australian sides.
He warned that favoritism does not guarantee success, recalling Sheffield Eagles' upset over Wigan in 1998.
Wigan coach Matt Peet emphasized the high expectations at the club. "I just don't know any different.
When I was growing up in the town I expected Wigan to win," he told BBC Radio Manchester.
Peet added that winning trophies is key to being remembered at a club like Wigan.
Player Jai Field expressed confidence in French's impact, saying his presence boosts the squad.
"He's a quality player, he's played at this level now and has a great track record in big games," Field said.
Forward Ethan Havard remained tight-lipped on team selection but welcomed French's potential inclusion. "It would be good if he does play," he said.
Salary Cap Concerns and Travel Logistics
Wigan chief executive Kris Radlinski voiced concerns to The Guardian about Super League salary cap rules that limit pay for young talent.
"You can go and work at Costa Coffee and earn a similar wage to some players," he said, calling it "an impossible challenge."
Hull KR chief executive Paul Lakin explained to BBC Sport how past travel mistakes shaped their approach.
After a long bus ride in 2023, the team now stays near the stadium.
"We will literally walk to the ground," Lakin said, adding that the routine worked for the Grand Final.
Lakin also noted the challenge of sustaining success like Wigan. "Good teams do it once; great teams do it multiple times," he said.
Hull KR won the World Club Challenge earlier this year and aim for consecutive Wembley victories.
Hull KR head coach Willie Peters expressed pride in leading the club. "Every time I coach KR, I'm always proud and grateful," he told BBC Radio Humberside.
Peters confirmed forward Jai Whitbread will miss the match due to the impending birth of his child, fully supporting his decision.
Captain Elliot Minchella expects Bevan French to play.
"He's a quality player but if you want to be the best you've got to beat the best," Minchella said.
Fans driving to Wembley should expect delays on the A406 North Circular Westbound due to emergency lane closures.
