“He’s ready to play” – Adrian Lam on Bevan French return

Bevan French is set to make his first appearance of the season when Wigan host Castleford on Thursday evening.

The 25-year-old has been named in Adrian Lam’s squad to face Castleford after missing last week’s win over Leeds due to a slight back issue.

Lam said: “He’s ready to play. I wouldn’t assume that Bevan will be playing his best rugby in game one, but this is Bevan French, remember, so he might come out and score a hat-trick.

“Fingers crossed he hits the ground running.”

The Warriors are set for just their second competitive fixture at the DW Stadium in 13 months as they welcome Castleford, with both teams putting their 100% winning starts to the season – in both Super League and the Challenge Cup – on the line.

Lam added: “We’ve missed playing at DW Stadium, we miss our fans, we can’t wait till it’s back to normal.

“It’s an opportunity for us to build a reputation here at the ground again. We want it to be a fortress.”

Dom Manfredi would have been in contention this week but took a knock to his hand while Wigan captain Thomas Leuluai has been included in the squad despite struggling with a sore sternum.

Lam also has Ireland international Liam Byrne available for selection this week as the young prop returns from suspension.

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