Can anyone de-throne the quadruple history makers?
- David Cain
- Jan 29
- 3 min read
In 2024 Wigan Warriors swept the board with the World Club Challenge, Challenge Cup, League Leaders Shield, The Grand Final Winners, and the BBC Team of the Year. Perhaps this is why Matt Peet has decided not to upset the balance of the squad with only George Hirst brought in from Oldham at time of writing.
During Super League Raw Weekly on the 14th January the Super League Raw team discussed how they think the champions will go in 2025, why not watch the debate here:
Could any team truly afford to remain stagnant? A thought-provoking inquiry indeed! Yet, with a roster as formidable as this one, many might assert they possess ample space to breathe amidst the pursuing pack. However, the devoted supporters of the Robins and Wire would strongly contest this notion.
There is no doubt that in certain pivotal roles, Wigan boasts the finest talent in the league. Take, for instance, Jake Wardle—there exists no superior centre in the Super League. The illustrious Harry Sunderland Award winner of 2024 and a back-to-back Dream Teamer, he embodies excellence with his remarkable pace, balance, agility, composure, and unwavering consistency. In 2024, Jake conjured 15 tries for his teammates, with Liam Marshall frequently reaping the rewards, propelling him to become the top try scorer of the season with an impressive 27 tries. Wardle emerged as the highest metre maker per carry among centres in the league, averaging a dazzling 9.83 over 243 carries. Undoubtedly, the Wardle and Marshall partnership melds together like meat and potatoes in a pie, poised to serve up even more challenges for right edge defences in the coming year.
Then there is Harry Smith, a gem often overlooked in the realm of sport. His foot dances like a conductor's baton, orchestrating the Warriors' tempo with each exquisite kick, much like a masterful concerto. Remove Smith from the Wigan side in 2024, and it becomes evident: without him, the quest for the quadruple falters; he is that essential to the cherry and whites. Just as Kevin Sinfield illuminated the glory years at Leeds Rhinos, it is the art of kicking and strategic brilliance that garners silverware. In Harry, Wigan possesses a maestro poised to lead them once more. As Barry White so aptly proclaimed, "Let the Music Play," Harry!
If that didn’t already have rival players losing sleep, let’s dive into the legend that is Super League Superstar Bevan French! He’s already in the running for one of the greatest imports to ever grace our turf. Super League Raw's own Alex Sharp (Heritage Number 21) hit the nail on the head during 'The Final Whistle Podcast' last year, and boy, did he nail it!
"Bevan plays Rugby League like a kid in a playground"
It is hard to disagree, as some of his individual efforts in key games last year were only missing one thing, a cape! Take a look for yourself.
Bevan French stands ready to claim the esteemed Man of Steel award in 2025, even before the inaugural whistle echoes. Whispers abound that, had fate not dealt him the harsh cards of injury last season, he might have etched his name in history as the first to seize consecutive honours since the legend Paul Sculthorpe in 2001/2002.
Though it would require great courage to wager against the Warriors achieving a triumphant third Grand Final victory in 2025, Matt Peet and his valiant squad shall not rest on their laurels, mindful of their closest rivals fortifying their ranks throughout the winter. One truth shines brightly: should you conquer the Warriors in this year's knockout contests, you are likely to emerge adorned with a medal or ring as a testament to your triumph.
During Super League Raw Weekly the team discussed some key topics.
Who has the biggest Point to Prove?
Me - Sam Walters - having arrived from the Rhinos with great expectation, Sam needs to establish himself in 2025. As he proved vs Leigh Leopards with a semi-final hat-trick last year, he has the ability to displace the great Liam Farrell this year.
Stef - Tyler Dupree - many picked Tyler to be a future England starting prop, I think he will rip it up this year.
Greg - Players like Abbas Miski, with young talent breathing down his neck in the shape of Zack Eckersley.
Who are you Excited to See?
Me - Zach Eckersley - hopefully he gets given his head.
Stef - Zach Eckersley - he may end up replacing Keighran at centre.
Greg - George Hirst - I hope he gets a chance, potential superstar.
Who is the Rising Star 2025?
Stef - Tyler Dupree
Greg - George Hirst
Me - Zach Eckersley
Who is the Key Player? Silly question of course!
To a man - Bevan French
Any team can beat anyone on their day and by no means are Wigan unbeatable, but when they gel and play well, any team has to be on top of their game to stay in the match. Will Wigan win everything this year, probably not, will they take some silverware this year, probably