Wigan Warriors boss confirms major boost ahead of Leeds Rhinos showdown; Iain Thornley absence explained

Wigan head coach Matt Peet has confirmed that Tyler Dupree will be in contention to make his return this weekend against Leeds Rhinos.

The highly-rated England international missed the Round 23 home win over Salford Red Devils after failing his head injury assessment in the 34-0 triumph over Catalans.

Joe Shorrocks was recalled to the first team for the first time since his red card in the Challenge Cup semi final against Hull KR as replacement, featuring from the interchange bench.

Dupree, 23, will have completed his 12-day protocol for Saturday’s trip to Headingley Stadium, with the Super League tie live on Sky Sports, 2:45pm kick-off.

“He’ll be in the 21,” Peet confirmed to media on Tuesday.

Iain Thornley absence explained

Meanwhile, the Warriors boss explained Iain Thornley’s absence from the club’s reserves side, who defeated Leeds 44-24 at Robin Park Arena on Sunday.

Off-contract duo Cade Cust and Ryan Hampshire featured in the victory, while Thornley, 31, was a surprise absentee ahead of the game, with youngsters Nathan Lowe and Zach Eckersley named in the centres.

Thornley has featured just four times this year, scoring three tries, having marked his return from a long-term injury on loan at Championship outfit Barrow Raiders before being recalled.

“He actually suffered a HIA in his last reserves game,” Peet confirmed.

“It’s a delayed return from that, but he’ll be back soon enough.”

Peet remained coy on Thornley’s future, having rejoined the club ahead of 2022 from Leigh on an initial two-year deal.

There is an option for a third season, with Peet commenting: “We speak to these lads [off-contract] all the time, we’re on the same page, us and Iain.”

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