Gareth Widdop brewing up a storm ahead of Super League debut

Warrington star Gareth Widdop is surprisingly looking forward to the challenge of playing in Storm Dennis as he makes his Super League debut.

The 30-year-old missed the first three weeks of the season after damaging ankle ligaments in pre-season training.

But he has recovered in time for the Wolves’ trip over the pennines to Wakefield on Sunday afternoon.

Widdop said: “It’s going to be a lot different to what I’ve been used to the last 11 years but these sort of games were very much part of the challenge and experience of why I wanted to move to Super League.

“I knew it was going to be different and the chance to play at some of the older, more traditional grounds where the weather plays a big part.

“It’ll be interesting to see what the weather’s going to be like but I’m excited to just get back out there and play some rugby.”

Widdop is expected to partner fellow marquee man Blake Austin in the halves, which could see Stefan Ratchford return to his preferred role of full-back.

However, it could mean that youngster Matty Ashton loses his spot despite setting Super League alight in the first couple of rounds.

Warrington coach Steve Price said: “I’ve got to do what’s best for the team. It’s a tough selection to have.

“We’re in a good place, we’re in a pretty healthy spot at present.”

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