Leader of the Wigan Council, Lord Peter Smith, has sent a letter to Wigan Warriors chairman Ian Lenagan, wishing his side luck in tomorrow’s World Club Challenge match against Sydney Roosters.
The reigning Super League champions are the first to visit Australia for the annual match since 1994 but are severe underdogs with the bookmakers. Indeed, the Roosters are 2/13 favourites, with Wigan 5/1 outsiders. The match is to be broadcast live on Sky Sports tomorrow from 8.30am.
Here’s Smith’s letter in full:
Dear Ian,
On behalf of the town and the Council can I send you and the Warriors our very best wishes in the World Club Challenge match on Saturday? Many of us will be rising early on Saturday morning or at least setting our recorders to capture the game, envying those dedicated fans who have made the trip down under.
2013 was a special year for the town for sporting success and the achievements of the Warriors in winning both major Rugby League trophies was great for everyone and demonstrates the quality that runs through the club. The players have the opportunity to emulate their glorious predecessors who twenty years ago took on and beat the might of the Brisbane Broncos. And Shaun can remind his players of that great night when the series began with Wigan’s victory over Manley. I was among the 36,000 spectators at Central Park that night to see that riveting match and Shaun deservedly awarded man of the match.
So congratulations to the Warriors for taking the challenge back to Australia and best wishes against the Roosters.
Sincerely,
Peter
