‘He’s aware’ – Wigan Warriors hooker issued future challenge as Matt Peet outlines contract latest

Wigan Warriors boss Matt Peet has urged Cade Cust to use the remainder of the season as an opportunity to earn himself a new contract at the DW Stadium. 

Australian playmaker Cust arrived at Wigan from the NRL ahead of the 2022 campaign on a two-year deal, with the option for a further season.

The 24-year-old began his Super League career in the halves, featuring 25 times for the side including the Challenge Cup victory over Huddersfield Giants at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

He featured in all six of the opening games of the 2023 season in the halves alongside England international Harry Smith, until injury stuck ahead of the Round Seven clash with Leigh Leopards.

Cust made his return later in May from the bench in the 40-18 defeat to Leeds Rhinos, dropped the following fixture in the Challenge Cup against Rohan Smith’s side and again for the trip to Hull KR.

The overseas star has since fallen down the pecking order under head coach Peet, fighting for a contract extension at the club.

He has shifted to the position of hooker, predominantly utilised from the bench, but has a fight on his hands to remain at the Warriors.

Wigan confirmed the signing of ex-Leeds number nine Kruise Leeming on a massive four-year deal starting in 2024, casting doubts over Cust’s future.

Peet insists the player still has a chance to fight for that further option in his contract, with now potentially five hookers contracted to the club alongside Tom Forber, Sam Powell, Leeming and Brad O’Neill following his new long-term deal.

Wigan Warriors boss on Cade Cust future

“I think it’s a decision that we’ll make at the end of the season when we’ve seen Sam Powell come back from his injury, and we’re going to see how Tom Forber develops,” Peet told Love Rugby League on the prospect of potentially losing a hooker for 2024.

“It won’t be a decision we’re in a rush to make.

“Brad’s developing excellently, and Kruise was a player when he became available, we thought would add an extra dimension to our club and obviously Sam Powell has been a leader for a number of years.

“We’re spoiled for riches at the moment and I look forward to it working itself out. But I think for the rest of this year, having Sam, Cade and Brad puts us in a strong position.”

Peet says Cust is aware of his contract situation, with ongoing conversations with the quota spot player.

“He’s aware of that,” Peet continued.

“We’ve had quality discussions with him and he’s handled himself well.

“With how many weeks we’ve got left, he’s got a good opportunity to prove what he’s all about.

“We’ve had discussions with Cade in the background and he knows exactly where he stands.”

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