Matt Peet proves willingness to make big selection choices after naming first Wigan Warriors squad

Matt Peet's first Wigan Warriors squad has been named, and it's certainly caught the eye.

The new Warriors boss has made a number of major decisions ahead of the game as he prepares to start his own era as Wigan boss.

One thing that can be said for sure is that he isn't afraid to make a big decision after opting for Kai Pearce-Paul at centre ahead of Zak Hardaker for their Super League opener with Hull KR.

The hotly-rated youngster has enjoyed an impressive pre-season and has been given the nod by his new coach ahead of Hardaker, who played at centre for England in their Test victory over France in October.

Hardaker has missed a chunk of pre-season, first due to his international duty followed by a bulging disk in his neck that caused surgery. He will instead start from the bench.

Meanwhile, three regulars from last season, Oliver Partington, Harry Smith and Joe Shorrocks, have all been left out. Partington was a strong performer in 2021 while Shorrocks ended the season as Super League's top tackler. As for Smith, the promising half played nearly every game last year but will start the season on the sidelines.

Cade Cust and Kaide Ellis will make their debuts in the starting thirteen while Patrick Mago will play from the interchange bench. Iain Thornley, making his second debut, plays at centre. Jai Field will play at fullback on his return.

Wigan Warriors: Jai Field, Liam Marshall, Kai Pearce-Paul, Iain Thornley, Jake Bibby, Cade Cust, Tommy Leuluai, Brad Singleton, Sam Powell, Kaide Ellis, Liam Farrell, John Bateman, Willie Isa. Subs: Zak Hardaker, Patrick Mago, Morgan Smithies, Liam Byrne