Wigan star Cade Cust provides injury update as he targets leadership role

After having last season cut short through injury, Wigan star Cade Cust has revealed back in full training ahead of their Super League opener.

The Australian half-back was forced to watch his side bow out of the Super League play-offs last season with an elbow injury.

But he is now back to full fitness after a strong pre-season with the Warriors. He will be ready to go for round one against Hull KR on February 18.

“I’ve been doing a bit of rehab and stuff on the side, but I’m in full training and full contact and all ready to go for round one,” Cust told Love Rugby League.

“I had a couple of weeks of rehab for the elbow before the break. I then had a bit of time off to get refreshed.”

Follow the leader

Cust has revealed that he wants to take on extra responsibility at the Warriors in 2023 by becoming more of a leader following Tommy Leuluai’s retirement.

He said: “On the field, I want to take more of that leadership role and play consistently. I want to lead the team around and play well.”

Leuluai joined Wigan’s coaching staff after hanging up his boots, and his words of wisdom have been paying off.

“It’s been very beneficial for Harry (Smith) and I,” Cust added.

“Tommy has obviously been around for 20 years in the game. He’s helping us out. It’s been very valuable really. It’s been perfect for us.

“We were only just playing with him last year, so he’s one of the boys. He’s been unreal for us and I’m looking forward to seeing what our attack can do it 2023. 

“Me and Harry love playing together. I think he had a terrific year last year. We want to build on that and do some good things in the year.”

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Cade Cust wants to go one better in 2023

The 24-year-old helped Wigan win the Challenge Cup at Tottenham last year, and now he has eyes for the Grand Final.

He said: “We had the success in the Challenge Cup but we fell short in the league. There’s a driving force to go better this year and keep competing.

“There’s something to strive for. We’re looking forward to putting in the hard work and take on each game as it comes.

“We’ve been working on combinations and we’ve got a good base from last year.

“A lot of us have played together now and we know each other’s strengths and I’m looking forward to the upcoming season.”

Indie rock band The K’s will headline Wigan’s opening game of the season against Hull KR at Craven Park.

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