Correct, but he needs to deliver more if we are to close the gap. You can only spend a pound once. For what it’s worth, I like Byrne. But it’s a rare day that Wigan lose a good one that they want to keep, so I just hope we have done our due diligence.

Yes, glad with that signing and as we lose another quota player we have the option to bring in another player still before the end of the year - which will be interesting.


In terms of props for next year, I agree we lack some impact, but in terms of prop numbers for next year we seem ok? Would another prop be one too many, if so, who do we lose to bring another in?

How many effective props do we have? 

That depends if you consider Crowther to be a prop or not?

To me he is a utility forward who can play prop if necessary but not a specialist prop.

I absolutely think we need a prop shake up, I'm just wondering whether adding another body would mean we were too heavy in one position - an important position admittedly - but we have to think about the balance of the squad and where we are spending the cap.  If we have Vaughan, Bryne, New Prop, Yates, Harrison, Philbin & Wood (agreed Crowther shouldn't be considered a prop option) then given Burgess doesn't seem to want 3 props on the bench, is it a good use of cap space to have Harrison, Phibin and Wood for example sitting in the stands. I appreciate you need cover for injury / suspension etc. Just feels to me one body too much when you consider you want to give time to the likes of Wood and Thomas to develop as well.


I would bring in another prop, but I would be looking at who from that list of 7 I would look to move on.

Its a difficult balancing act as Wigan are finding out. We have Thompson, Havard, Byrne, Hill, Dupree, Mago, Walters and Ellis (admittedly playing 13 now) all potential 1st choice props. It worked last season and so far this season due to injuries, and being able to turn out a pack that you didnt really notice we've virtually not started with our 1st choice pack

and with Byrne and Hill moving on next season, possibly for more money but most likely with the promise / likelihood of 1st team rugby, you can see why its a balancing act, and you cant blame players as its a short career. We also have up to 5 off contract at the end of next season, so have to make the right calls re recruitment / retention of those players


The other challenge is that all clubs are looking for props, so a competitive market place, and probably a good time to be a prop forward