New man Finch fit for Wigan debut

ENGAGE SUPER LEAGUE
Venue: DW Stadium Date: Friday 25 March Kick-off: 2000 GMT
Coverage: Updates on BBC Radio 5 Live, Radio Manchester, BBC London & the BBC Sport website, highlights on the Super League Show.

Brett Finch ran in 66 tries in his 257 NRL matches down under

Close-season signing Brett Finch is finally fit to make his debut for Wigan in Friday night’s table-topping derby with Super League leaders Warrington.

The former Melbourne Storm half-back, 29, who joined the champions on a two-year contract last July, was forced to undergo neck surgery in January.

But he is now back in full training and looks set to be named in coach Michael Maguire’s 19-man squad on Wednesday.

“We’ll talk to the right people and see if he’s OK for Friday,” said Maguire.

“He’s coming along really well and will bring a lot to the team.

“He has a lot of experience and enthusiasm. He’s a very exciting player.”

Maguire will recall full-back Sam Tomkins, who has completed a one-match ban.

But, after having to play skipper Sean O’Loughlin out of position at half-back in Friday night’s gritty 20-6 win at Huddersfield, Finch will be expected to start at stand-off as Paul Deacon is likely to be missing again.

Deacon has been given another week to recover from the head injury he sustained in the 14-12 win over Hull nine days ago.

“We’ll assess him throughout the week but it will be a struggle for Friday,” said Maguire.

Unbeaten Wigan are expecting a full house for the meeting with their high-flying neighbours, who have not lost since their opening day Magic Weekend defeat to Huddersfield at the Millennium Stadium.