Teenage half-back Jack Farrimond relishing prospect to take on Mikey Lewis in Super League top-two showdown
Wigan young gun Jack Farrimond prepares to go up against Hull KR’s Mikey Lewis admitting: “It’s the ultimate test.” Teenage half-back Farrimond has produced some quality displays for the Super League champions in the absence of injured former Man of Steel Bevan French.
He scored two tries in Friday’s win over Warrington Wolves having also crossed courtesy of a fine solo effort in their previous outing against Catalans. Indeed, the latter was the sort of impromptu dazzling piece of play that Aussie superstar French has made his trademark.
But the top-of-the-table clash with leaders Rovers is the game everybody is talking and, arguably, it will be the biggest yet of Farrimond’s blossoming career.
French has been out since late June with a calf injury but, like last week, is again included in Matt Peet’s 21-man squad as he nears a return to fitness.
It remains to be seen if he will take to the field against Rovers but Farrimond, at least, is looking forward to the prospect of hopefully doing battle with current Man of Steel and England star Mikey Lewis. The 19 year-old said: “It’s a great challenge going up against him.
“He’s put himself out there for contention for the end of the year in the Ashes. So, realistically, it’s the ultimate test to be playing against that calibre of player.
“I think his maturity over the last couple of seasons has transformed him into a player who can manage a team as well, not just be the spark plater that they look to.
“He’s really gripped the team. He’s their on-field general, a great talent and it will be great to challenge myself.”
Farrimond, who has still only made 15 senior appearances for Wigan since debuting against London in March last year, knows tackling the Robins – who have a four-point lead over Wigan at the top – has all the hallmarks of a classic contest.
And with six tries in his seven games so far this term, the elusive runner is hoping to make his mark on the clash.
Farrimond added: “It’s massive. It’s going to be a great game to be a part of to play for the league table – bringing us closer or them moving away from us.
“It’s a massive game. I’m sure the atmosphere will be immense, they’ve sold loads of tickets already and hopefully the crowd can make it nice and loud and get on top of the boys.”