Jai Field can inspire the next generation, says Wigan coach Matt Peet
Wigan star Jai Field can inspire the next generation of youth to pick up a rugby ball and start following the sport, according to coach Matt Peet.
The in-form Australian full-back is currently top of Super League’s try scoring charts, having scored 14 tries after 10 rounds.
And a late wonder try from Field secured a 30-24 win for Wigan against Salford in front of the Channel 4 cameras on Sunday afternoon.
Speaking about Jai Field after the game, Peet said: “He is doing some special things and some incredible things. They are the reason people come to games, the reason they turn the TV on is to watch moments like that.
“Jai is a player at the moment who is doing a lot of special things.
“He is doing a lot of effort-related things as well, he cleaned up some kicks today and I was just pleased during that period towards the end of the game that we were able to lift the energy in defence, get some pressure on their kicks and we know our back three can do that to teams.
“We want to be a team that inspire the next generation and inspire people to follow the sport. When you get import players, you hope they have an affect, not just on the team but the supporters and people of the town. We’ve got a group of players who can do that at the moment and Jai is leading the way.”
Kaide Ellis impresses Wigan coach
Peet was also impressed with off-season recruit Kaide Ellis. The Australian prop served a five-match suspension earlier this season but has provided two standout displays upon his return to action.
On Ellis, Peet said: “He started the game like a house on fire and I thought he did some good things.
“He played a good chunk of minutes. It has probably worked out well that in some ways he has come in fresh. He has attacked these games and hopefully we get the same from Brad (Singleton) on Friday.
“I think Kaide has shown what he can do, he has probably had his best games in the last two weeks.”
Peet revealed that Ireland international Brad Singleton will return to face Warrington on Friday night.
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