Bevan French could return in Challenge Cup confirms Wigan coach

Josh McAllister
Bevan French Wigan

Bevan French is set to make his first appearance of the season

Wigan full-back Bevan French could return to action in the Challenge Cup competition.

French returned to the UK with Wigan at the end of February.

The 26-year-old had returned to Australia last year after suffering a season-ending hamstring injury in June. He had completed his rehabilitation Down Under, whilst also looking after his mother, who sadly passed away earlier this year.

He has travelled to France with the Wigan squad, but has not been a part of their squads for either their Toulouse fixture or their upcoming Catalans clash.

“Bevan French looks fit,” Peet said. “He’s still not training with the squad.

“He’s dropping in for bits and out for bits because we need to control his high-speed running and his acceleration and all that sort of stuff. It’s brilliant to see him amongst the lads and it’s exciting.”

The Wigan head coach has confirmed that the 2020 Super League Dream Team full-back could return in the Challenge Cup for the squad.

Wigan will enter the sixth round of the cup, due to be played on the weekend of March 26-27.

Peet commented: “It’s (his return) all got checkpoints. At the moment, we’re thinking in the Challenge Cup. But we’ll see how that goes. 

“It might be that he makes his return off the bench or even potentially in the reserves; but I think I’ve said in the past, I don’t see that being likely. 

“We’re looking to target one of the Challenge Cup games.”

Wigan to face Catalans this weekend

Wigan complete their tour of France this weekend with a trip to Perpignan to face Catalans. Last week, Peet’s side claimed a last-minute win over Toulouse thanks to a Harry Smith drop-goal.

Captain Thomas Leuluai will return to the team for this weekend’s Super League clash.

Leuluai, 36, was rested for Saturday’s tie but coach Peet said he will be back for the match in Perpignan.

Former Wigan star Sam Tomkins has been named to make his return for the tie. He missed the club’s win over Warrington last week.

READ MORE: Matt Peet praises ‘role model’ Liam Farrell ahead of 300th Wigan game

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