Rugby League News: Zach Eckersley Poised to Deputize for Wigan Warriors in Challenge Cup Final
With Adam Keighran facing a three-match ban following his red card in Wigan’s recent Super League victory, the door has opened for promising young center Zach Eckersley to potentially feature in the upcoming Challenge Cup final.
The 20-year-old Oldham native, who hails from the same club that nurtured the careers of rugby league greats like Kevin Sinfield and Paul Sculthorpe, has been making steady progress through Wigan’s junior system. After making his Super League debut last August, Eckersley has continued to impress, scoring his maiden senior try in the 60-22 win over London Broncos in March.
Wigan’s Academy head coach John Duffy has spoken glowingly of Eckersley’s abilities, describing him as “very, very skilful” with a combination of physicality, speed, and an excellent skill set for a center. Duffy highlighted Eckersley’s humble and grounded nature, attributes that have been nurtured by Wigan’s renowned youth development program.
The young center’s journey has included spells on loan in the Championship, where he has gained valuable experience against “big, physical bodies.” This has undoubtedly aided his development and prepared him for the potential opportunity to feature in the Challenge Cup final against Warrington Wolves at Wembley.
Wigan head coach Matt Peet has already praised Eckersley’s performance in the recent victory over Warrington, and the club’s commitment to youth development suggests the youngster could well be handed a chance to shine on rugby league’s biggest stage.
Whether Eckersley plays at Wembley or not, his progress this season has been a testament to his talent and the Wigan system’s ability to nurture homegrown talent. For the young center, the prospect of running out in front of around 70,000 fans in a historic Challenge Cup final would no doubt be a dream come true.
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