Get ready for an exciting rugby league showdown as Hull FC takes on Wigan Warriors this Sunday!
A Battle of Legends and Newcomers
Hull FC's coach, John Cartwright, has unveiled his starting lineup, featuring some fresh faces and intriguing match-ups. The Black and Whites are set to welcome Jake Arthur and Joe Batchelor for their first run-outs, alongside the highly anticipated return of Ligi Sao, who hasn't played rugby league in a year.
But here's where it gets interesting: Sao, a former Wiganer, will be facing his old club for the first time, paired with the new signing Harvie Hill at prop. It's a clash of the old and the new, with Hull also fielding another ex-Wiganer, Amir Bourouh, at hooker.
The Spine and Beyond
In the spine of the team, Will Pryce starts at full-back, with Lewis Martin and Harvey Barron on the wings. The halves are a mix of experience and youth, with Davy Litten and Zak Hardaker joined by Callum Kemp and the aforementioned Jake Arthur.
The forward pack is a blend of power and agility. Sao and Hill lead the charge, supported by the back row trio of Jed Cartwright, Joe Batchelor, and Yusuf Aydin.
Interchange Options and Injuries
On the interchange bench, Hull has a mix of established players and exciting young talent. Cade Cust, Sam Lisone, Arthur Romano, and Connor Bailey are joined by the experienced Tom Briscoe, Brad Fash, and Hugo Salabio. The young quartet of Will Hutchinson, Will Kirby, Lloyd Kemp, and Elliot Middlemas completes the lineup, bringing energy and enthusiasm to the team.
Unfortunately, Hull is still without Herman Ese'ese due to an Achilles injury. James Bell, Liam Knight, Matty Laidlaw, Logan Moy, and Joe Phillips are also out with various injuries, while Aidan Sezer and John Asiata are being rested to manage their shoulder and hamstring issues, respectively.
Starting Lineups and Live Updates
Hull's starting XIII: 1. Will Pryce; 5. Lewis Martin, 3. Davy Litten, 4. Zak Hardaker, 2. Harvey Barron; 27. Callum Kemp, 6. Jake Arthur; 10. Harvie Hill, 9. Amir Bourouh, 18. Ligi Sao; 12. Jed Cartwright, 11. Joe Batchelor; 20. Yusuf Aydin.
Interchange: 14. Cade Cust, 16. Sam Lisone, 19. Tom Briscoe, 21. Arthur Romano, 22. Connor Bailey, 23. Brad Fash, 26. Hugo Salabio, 29. Will Hutchinson, 30. Will Kirby, 32. Lloyd Kemp, 37. Elliot Middlemas.
Stay tuned for live updates on the game! Will Hull FC's new additions make an impact? How will the former Wiganers fare against their old club? Join the discussion and share your predictions in the comments!