Leeds United fan Zak Hardaker aiming for Wembley appearance with Wigan Warriors - at Leeds Rhinos' expense

Former Leeds Rhinos star Zak Hardaker is hoping for an extra special birthday this year - at the expense of his old club.
By Peter Smith
Published 2nd Oct 2020, 16:45 BST
Konrad Hurrell is tackled by Zak Hardaker during Leeds' loss to Wigan in August. Picture by Bruce Rollinson.Konrad Hurrell is tackled by Zak Hardaker during Leeds' loss to Wigan in August. Picture by Bruce Rollinson.
Konrad Hurrell is tackled by Zak Hardaker during Leeds' loss to Wigan in August. Picture by Bruce Rollinson.

Hardaker will be a central fixture for Wigan Warriors in today’s Coral Challenge Cup semi-final against Rhinos at St Helens.

And he said: “The Challenge Cup final is on my birthday, so I’ve got an even bigger incentive to get there.”

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The 28-year-old was Man of Steel in 2015 when, playing at full-back, he helped Leeds to the treble of Challenge Cup, league leaders’ shield and Grand Final victories.

With Aussie Bevan French in sensational form in the number one role, Hardaker has operated mainly at centre this year and is relishing today’s battle with Rhinos’ left-edge.

“On our side they’ve got Luke Gale, Alex Mellor, Konrad Hurrell - if he’s fit - and Ash Handley on the wing,” he said.

“That’s their go-to side.

“Our edge had an off day a couple of weeks ago [against Hull KR], which was disappointing, but we’ve rectified that.

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“As a centre I don’t want tries being scored down that edge.

“It’s probably their strongest side and we’re looking forward to the challenge.

“I know Galey quite well, he’s quite vocal and it should be pretty good.”

Once this afternoon’s game has finished Hardaker will be in a rush to tune into Leeds United’s huge televised fixture against Manchester City.

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The keen United fan admitted a defeat for Leeds in rugby and win at football “would be the dream”.

He said: “If we beat Leeds and United beat Man City, that would go down really well.”

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Related topics:Zak HardakerLeeds UnitedLeedsWigan WarriorsWembleyHull KRLuke GaleSt Helens

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