Warrington Wolves boss Sam Burgess has confirmed some huge team news for the Challenge Cup Final, speaking to media at today’s captain’s run session at Wembley.
Influential captain George Williams will make his return in the capital from ankle surgery as expected, partnering veteran Marc Sneyd in the halves.
Stefan Ratchford, who has played as half-back in the past five weeks, including the semi-final win over Leigh Leopards, will be named on the bench. The 36-year-old missed out on last year’s showdown with Wigan Warriors, with Danny Walker starting at hooker and Sam Powell on the bench. England international Walker is currently sidelined through injury.
Aussie back-rower Lachlan Fitzgibbon has also been declared fit to face Hull KR on Saturday.
“It’s pretty clear who is going to play, everyone’s pulled through quite well, so we’ll be as everyone expects,” Burgess confirmed on Friday.
“Stefan Ratchford will be on the bench. He’s been fantastic for us. He missed out last year and he’s done a great job while George has been out. He’s not only filled in for George, but filled in the centres too.
“A couple of players are coming back. We’ve got Toby [King] and George, so it made absolute sense, but he [Ratchford] deserves to be here. He got us here and he has been a big part of our journey in the Challenge Cup, so he deserves the opportunity to win tomorrow.”
Jordy Crowther will also take a bench spot over young forward Max Wood, having missed last week’s 34-24 win over Castleford Tigers through a minor injury.
“Jordy has been so pivotal for us,” Burgess added. “He’s done a great job covering that nine spot and a push through the middle. He’ll be on the bench.”