Worthy Warriors ready to rule the world again

THE rugby league season may only be a few days old, but there’s already silverware on the line as Wigan Warriors tonight bid to land the Betfred World Club Challenge.

Saints made history a year ago, beating the NRL Champions Penrith Panthers on their own patch. Now Wigan look to do the same at a sold-out DW Stadium.

Warriors will have to make do without England prop Luke Thompson but are boosted by the availability of Harry Smith (right) who avoided a ban in this week’s disciplinary rulings.

Wigan club have lifted this trophy four times, and despite going into this game as 17-10 underdogs, there is a quiet confidence around the DW that they will rule the world once more.

In the other rugby code the Six Nations really hots up as we enter week three.

First up, Ireland are 1-28 to remain on course for the Grand Slam by beating a tenacious Wales side who have been narrowly denied in both matches to date.

Andy Farrell’s relentless Irisg are Even money to give Wales a 23-point start after winning in France and beating Italy a fortnight ago.

Game of the weekend is the Calcutta Cup at Murrayfield. Scotland were unlucky not to beat France with a last-gasp try after just pipping Wales in the opening weekend. They face an England side who have failed to impress but got the job done in their two opening games.

Scotland are 4-7 favourites in a bid for a fourth straight win in the fixture, while England are 6-4 and the handicap is set at four points.

Tomorrow, France face Italy in Lille. They are 1-50 to win and 10-11 giving up a 27-point start.