Wigan Warriors fullback Jai Field is expected to miss six-to-eight weeks of action due to a hamstring injury, according to head coach Matt Peet. Field sustained the injury during the early stages of the Challenge Cup Final at Wembley, but continued to play through the pain. His absence may see players like Ryan Hampshire and Jack Farrimond step up, with Bevan French also a potential candidate to move into the fullback position.
The extent of Jai Field’s injury has been confirmed by the scans, and as a result, Bevan French, the current Man of Steel, has been moved to the fullback position, where he has previously excelled, and Ryan Hampshire has been selected to partner with Harry Smith in the halves, following their recent 10-8 win at The Mend-A-Hose Jungle.
Matt Peet, the Wigan Warriors head coach, commended Jai Field for his courageous decision to remain on the field despite his injury, which allowed him to play a crucial role in the team’s 18-8 victory over Warrington Wolves in the Challenge Cup Final, including setting up Liam Farrell’s signature try, ultimately securing the Cherry and Whites’ 21st Challenge Cup title.
“The injury will likely keep him out for around six to eight weeks,” Peet confirmed.
“To be frank, I initially thought the injury would sideline him for only two or three weeks, given that he completed the entire Challenge Cup Final match. However, the severity of the injury has proven otherwise.
Nevertheless, it’s essential to acknowledge and appreciate Jai’s remarkable courage and dedication that day, as his decision to play through the pain made a significant difference in our chances of winning, and his absence would have severely impacted our team’s prospects.”
“We won’t rush him back; it makes me realise how tough he played that day.”
The rising hooker Tom Forber, who was playing on a dual registration with Championship team Barrow Raiders, suffered a long-term injury, which was verified by the Warriors coach in the meantime.
The 21-year-old has made three appearances so far this season, and Peet acknowledges that the timing of the injury is regrettable because the academy product could have played more senior minutes.
“The way the games have been around the Challenge Cup and this one (London Broncos), he would have been someone who would have picked up some game time,” Peet said in response to a question about Tom’s timing.
“However, he hasn’t been training and will be out for some time due to an ankle strain he sustained while playing on loan.”
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