Wigan Warriors have been dealt a hammer blow as centre Kai Pearce-Paul is set to be sidelined for several months through injury.
Head coach Matt Peet confirmed the 21-year-old has suffered torn ligaments, having limped off in the first half of Warriors’ 20-0 Challenge Cup sixth-round win against Salford Red Devils on Friday night.
The news comes as a disappointment to the Warriors given the youngster’s impressive start to the 2022 season.
Peet said: “We’re looking at a good few months. It’s unfortunate. But it’s part of the game and that’s the reason why we like to build strength in depth and have good juniors.
“As well, it gives Kai the opportunity to do a little bit of work on himself in the gym, but at the moment he’s still hurting on the bad news.”
The in-demand youngster enjoyed a breakthrough 2021 season and had featured in every Warriors league game this season, earning a call-up to Shaun Wane’s provisional England squad.
Peet didn’t elaborate on the timeframe, so it is unclear whether Pearce-Paul’s World Cup hopes have been dashed.
Centre Iain Thornley could return to the starting line-up in Pearce-Paul’s place after recovering from an injury suffered in the opening fixture against Hull KR.
Prop Brad Singleton is back from suspension but Thomas Leuluai misses out after receiving a one-match ban – with Peet refusing to say who may play halfback in the captain’s place.
