Wigan centre Iain Thornley set for lengthy spell on the sidelines
Wigan coach Matt Peet has confirmed that centre Iain Thornley will miss up to six weeks of action after suffering an MCL injury.
The 30-year-old left the field in Wigan’s 32-12 win over Castleford on Saturday. Scans have revealed that he is set to face up to six weeks on the sidelines.
Peet said: “He has had a scan and he has damaged his MCL. He will probably miss six weeks which is disappointing for him.
“He can’t get a run at the moment so he continues to work hard in the background.”
Iain Thornley out, John Bateman in
Wigan will be boosted by the return of England international John Bateman for Friday’s trip to Salford. He didn’t play against Castleford last week due to his partner being in labour.
Peet said: “He is available. Everything went well for him and his partner at the weekend and welcomed their baby boy.
“He is happy and it has been great to have him back in work this week. He has been full of energy as usual.”
PODCAST: John Bateman on his journey from young kid from Bradford to superstar
Wigan seek three wins on the spin
The Warriors backed up to their Challenge Cup triumph at Tottenham a fortnight ago with a win at Castleford last week.
Peet’s men will aim to make it three wins on the spin when they travel to neighbours Salford in Super League on Friday night.
Peet says his side need to be at the top of their game if they are to come away with the spoils.
He added: “I think they are a really quality team. I think what Paul (Rowley, Salford coach) is looking for is consistency.
“Judging them from their two performances against us this year, both games have been as tough as any we’ve had. There were times were they carved us up for fun and score tries and they certainly have the ability to do that.
“They’ve got a lot of attacking threats through their backline and you know if you start slow or have any inconsistencies in your defence then they will expose it.”
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