Wigan Warriors’ 2013 Challenge Cup Triumph: Where Are They Now?
The Wigan Warriors have long been synonymous with the Challenge Cup, having enjoyed great success in the prestigious competition over the years. However, their last Wembley victory came back in 2013, a drought that has left their passionate fans yearning for more glory at the historic home of the Challenge Cup.
The 2013 Squad: A Decade On
As the Warriors prepare to take the field in this year’s final, it’s an opportune time to revisit the squad that lifted the trophy a decade ago and explore their post-2013 journeys.
Leading the charge that day was fullback Sam Tomkins, who departed for the New Zealand Warriors shortly after, before returning to the North West and later joining the Catalans Dragons, where he now serves as an ambassador and TV pundit.
Another key member of the 2013 side is Josh Charnley, who has continued his successful career, winning silverware with Warrington Wolves and more recently, Leigh Leopards. Centres Darrell Goulding and Ian Thornley have taken different paths, with Goulding transitioning into business and player agency, while Thornley has had a nomadic playing career, including a return to the Warriors in 2022.
Winger Pat Richards, known for his prolific kicking, ended his playing days with the Catalans Dragons in 2016 and now works in machinery sales. Halfback Blake Green, who joined the Warriors in 2011, went on to enjoy success in the NRL before moving into coaching with the Newcastle Knights.
Veteran halfback Matty Smith, the Lance Todd Trophy winner in 2013, has since returned to St Helens, where he is currently the head coach of the women’s team and an assistant for the men’s side. Prop Ben Flower, who infamously saw red in the 2014 Grand Final, is now a biltong producer in Wigan.
Hooker Michael McIlorum and prop Lee Mossop have both moved on, with McIlorum still playing for the Catalans Dragons, while Mossop has transitioned into a player agent role. Harrison Hansen, the long-serving Samoan and New Zealand international, is still going strong, currently plying his trade for Toulouse.
“The sole remaining player from the 2013 squad is Liam Farrell, who has become the club captain and amassed an impressive collection of trophies, including three Super League Grand Finals, two League Leaders Shields, one Challenge Cup, and two World Club Challenges.”
Finally, the legendary Sean O’Loughlin, who featured in that 2013 triumph, has hung up his boots and now serves as an assistant coach alongside Tommy Leuluai and Matty Peet, continuing to guide the Warriors to success.
As the current Wigan squad prepares to write the next chapter in the club’s storied Challenge Cup history, the memories of that 2013 triumph and the paths taken by the victorious squad serve as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Warriors and the resilience of their players.
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