Matt Peet provides injury update on duo ahead of Super League opener

Wigan coach Matt Peet has provided an update on sidelined duo Ryan Hampshire and Iain Thornley ahead of their Super League opener at Hull KR.

Utility back Hampshire returned to the Warriors in the off-season on a one-year deal, with further options in the club’s favour for two more.

The 28-year-old is on the road to recovery after suffering an ACL injury whilst in action for Castleford last June.

Centre Thornley, meanwhile, was limited to just nine appearances last season due to injury. He is currently nursing a knee injury.

“I remember Ryan was sort of mid to late April, around the international window,” Peet told Love Rugby League.

“Iain is about a month in front of that, probably around the back end of March.”

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Matt Peet full of admiration for Hull KR star

The Warriors travel to Hull KR on Saturday for their opening game of the new season.

Peet was full of praise for the Robins as a club, particularly captain Shaun Kenny-Dowall.

When asked what he expected from Hull KR, Peet replied: “The venue that is being created by the club and the fans. It’s always a good atmosphere at Hull KR as far as I’m concerned but I think the optimism around that club is fantastic.

“Willie (Peters) speaks with great passion and pride. All the noises that are coming out of their camp are positive which is great for the game. One thing we’ll have to contend with is the atmosphere and the event.

“It’s hard to read into the tactics too much from the games they’ve played but the individuals are very exciting. Both of their young British half-backs, Mikey (Lewis) and Jordan (Abdull), are two fantastic talents and have knocked on the international door over the last few years.

“Their left edge is as strong as anything in Super League with Kane Linnett, Shaun Kenny-Dowall and Ryan Hall; and they’ve signed a new right centre (Tom Opacic).

“I’m a massive fan of Shaun Kenny-Dowall, I think he has been exactly what you want from an overseas signing at a club”

“His ability is up there with any centre in the competition but he leads them from the front. I remember last year when they played Toulouse when they were in the mix for relegation and the way he gripped that team in that period was very admirable.”

Wigan face Hull KR this Saturday on Channel 4, 1pm kick-off.

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