Challenge Cup final preview – Warrington vs Leeds
Warrington Wolves coach Tony Smith has dropped a bombshell in the build up to Saturday’s Carnegie Challenge Cup final against Leeds Rhinos by axing England international Richie Myler from the squad.
The young scrum-half has scored in every round of the competition up until now but has been replaced by Micky Higham, who is the only change to the side that beat Catalans Dragons 54-12 in the semi-final. In Myler’s absence, last season’s Lance Todd Trophy winner Michael Monaghan will play at scrum-half alongside Lee Bries.
"It was a difficult decision," Smith told the club’s official website.
"It's not an easy job and it's not a pleasurable job but when you're fit and healthy somebody has got to miss out.
"It's tough on Richard because he's had a terrific year and he's been very good for us. He's handled it exceptionally well and showed a lot of maturity. I'm sure he's going to play in plenty of big games and I gave him a lot of reassurance about that."
Warrington have first-hand Wembley-winning experience as a result of their victory in last year’s Challenge Cup final against Huddersfield. Skipper Adrian Morley lifted the trophy that day and he will be looking to repeat that success this time around against his old employers, where he also won this trophy 10 years ago.
The 33-year-old told the club’s official site: "We had our 10-year reunion last year with the side that won in '99. It was great to see some of the old boys again. When you do something like win the Challenge Cup final you have a bond for life.
"I was fortunate enough to be in that side but just because it is Leeds this weekend doesn't give me any more incentive. It doesn't matter who we are up against. The main thing is we're there and we want to give a performance to be proud of and bring the Cup back."
Meanwhile, Leeds coach Brian McClennan is keeping his cards close to chest and has decided not to release his starting line-up until the morning of the match. Second-rower Carl Ablett has been named in the squad following his three match suspension ending whilst Scott Donald will be pushing for a starting spot after he was named in the 19-man squad.
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