The 2026 Challenge Cup final is set to be a thrilling encounter, with the Wigan Warriors and Hull KR battling it out at Wembley. But the real question on everyone's mind is: will Bevan French, the Warriors' star player, return to the field? French has been out of action for three months due to a hamstring injury, but he was recently named in the Warriors' 21-man squad for the final. This has caused a bit of a stir, as French was initially expected to be out for 16 weeks, and the final is just 12 weeks after his injury. It's a real conundrum for the Warriors, who are hoping to reclaim the trophy from Hull KR. French's presence would be a significant boost to the team, especially for Jai Field, who knows the 30-year-old's strength in major contests. However, his inclusion would also mean that one of the Warriors' young players would have to drop out. The Warriors' players seem to be divided on the issue, with some expressing confidence in French's return and others remaining cautious. Ethan Havard, for instance, acknowledges French's quality and his ability to provide a steady head and confidence to the team, but also recognizes the importance of his presence in big games. On the other hand, Hull KR's captain, Elliot Minchella, is convinced that French will play, calling him one of the best players in the competition. Meanwhile, Wigan's head coach, Matt Peet, faces a selection headache of his own, with Jai Whitbread unavailable due to the impending birth of his first child. While the Warriors grapple with their squad selection, the final promises to be an exciting spectacle, with both teams eager to claim the prestigious Challenge Cup trophy. The outcome of this match will not only determine the cup winner but also shape the future of both teams and their players. As the anticipation builds, fans are eagerly awaiting the announcement of the starting line-up, with the possibility of French's return adding an extra layer of intrigue to the already highly anticipated final.
