Warrington Wolves suffer a huge injury blow ahead of season-defining games

Warrington Wolves are undoubtedly the current form of Super League. After wrapping up a huge win in the south of France, they face back-to-back games against Wigan Warriors in a fortnight that could define their season.

Warrington host Wigan at the Halliwell Jones Stadium on Saturday as the two sides, along with St Helens, are locked on 18 points at the top of the Super League table. Warrington then face the Warriors again the following weekend in the Challenge Cup final at Wembley. Two wins could put the Wolves on track for a historic season.

However, head coach Sam Burgess has confirmed that they go into the competition against Wigan without one of their key forwards. He is set to miss the Challenge Cup final.

Quiz: Can you name all these former Warrington Wolves players?

The Warrington Wolves man suffered a bruising knock

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Warrington’s Joe Philbin will miss the game against Wigan with an injury picked up after the weekend game. Philbin played against the Catalans, however, he injured his leg following the game.

Speaking in his weekly press conference, Burgess confirmed the injury.

“Everybody did well except Philbs. He’s not good – he’ll be out for a bit,” Burgess explained. “It probably won’t be good for Wembley, which is sad.

“We see him around the area and he’s quite a happy character so he’ll take it in his stride. He’s had a few injuries to deal with, being an experienced guy.

“I’m sad for him, but he’ll move on. We’re still figuring out how bad it is, but it probably won’t make the final.”

If Warrington win the Wembley showdown without Philbin, it would be the tenth time they have lifted the Challenge Cup in the club’s history.

Crowther provides a boost in Philbin’s absence

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Philbin played a crucial role in Warrington’s revival under Sam Burgess. The 29-year-old Warrington academy product has spent his entire career with Wolves, making 172 career appearances to date.

Philbin has played 11 games this season, scoring a try in Warrington’s round three win against Castleford Tigers. Despite Philbin’s knock, Burgess expects to be able to name a strong squad for the game against Wigan.

Warrington have also been boosted by Jordy Crowther’s return to fitness. Crowther missed the game in the south of France through injury. Crowther joined the club ahead of the 2024 season from Wakefield Trinity. Although previously playing as a loose forward, Crowther has filled in as part of Warrington’s front row this season and his return helps fill the void left by Phibin.

Crowther has made eight appearances for the Wire this season and has 97 Super League appearances in his career so far. He is yet to score his first try for Wolves.