Wakefield Trinity are genuine contenders to reach Old Trafford in 2026 following their latest victory over reigning champions Hull KR.
That is the view of former England international and respected pundit Paul Cooke, who has backed Daryl Powell’s side as potential dark horses to reach Super League’s showpiece event at the end of the season.
Wakefield secured their second win of the year over Hull KR in Round 18, lifting them into third place in the table behind leaders Leeds Rhinos and second-placed Wigan Warriors.
The West Yorkshire outfit have never reached a Super League Grand Final, but they have made remarkable progress under head coach Powell.
They finished sixth last season in their first campaign back in the top flight after a year in the Championship, with ambitious owner Matt Ellis helping drive the club’s revival.
Wakefield were eventually knocked out by Leigh Leopards in the eliminator play-offs, but Cooke believes they have the quality to challenge for a place at Old Trafford this year.
Speaking on the latest episode of the All Out Rugby League Back Ten show, he said: “I started the season, and everyone did, with Wigan and Hull KR. That’s changing with Leeds and their form.
“I saw them as dark horses at the beginning of the year.
“I’ll go another way – I think Wakefield could end up there. I think Wakefield and Wigan could end up there, or Wakefield and Leeds, or Wigan and Leeds. They’d be my three right now.”
Meanwhile, Back Ten guest Jerome Guisset backed Wigan Warriors and Leeds Rhinos to reach Old Trafford on October 3.