World comes to Wigan as Warriors face NRL champs
WIGAN will contest the 2019 World Club Challenge on home turf after the DW Stadium was confirmed as the venue for the clash between the Super League and NRL champions Sydney Roosters.
There had been some doubt about whether the annual contest would go ahead next season as interest from sides in the southern hemisphere has significantly waned in recent years.
Leeds travelled to Australia to take on Melbourne Storm in February, while the Warriors defeated Cronulla Sharks at the DW Stadium the previous year.
Wigan chairman Ian Lenagan said: “The World Club Challenge is a special competition for the Wigan club and with a game against Sydney Roosters, we have two of rugby league’s most iconic institutions facing one another.
“With the calibre of players on show from both teams, it should be a great advert for our sport.”
The match - which will kick off at 7pm on Sunday, February 17 and will be televised on Sky Sports - will see incoming interim head coach Adrian Lam lead the Warriors against the club with whom he started his playing career and where he has been assistant coach.
“I feel honoured and privileged to be the coach of our great Wigan club for the 2019 season,” said Lam.
“I have had some great memories in the cherry-andwhite that I will forever hold close to my heart.
“Another great opportunity presents itself with the World Club Challenge in February and our squad will work hard to prepare well through pre-season to deliver a performance that will make our fans proud.”