Leeds United supporter Zak Hardaker admits running out at Elland Road in next month’s Challenge Cup semi-final will be a dream come true. Hardaker helped Wigan Warriors into the last four of the famous old competition during Sunday’s 36-6 win at Wakefield Trinity.
The former Leeds Rhinos and Castleford Tigers star grew up in Pontefract in West Yorkshire and is a keen Whites fan. Now he will get to play at their iconic ground as Wigan face sworn enemies and Challenge Cup holders St Helens as part of a triple-header on Saturday, May 7.
“I have been fortunate to play in a number of stadiums around the world but Elland Road has eluded me, so to get the chance to play there in a Challenge Cup semi-final is great,” said 30-year-old Hardaker. “I try and get to Leeds United games as much as I can, but it’s normally quite difficult when we’ve played on a Friday and then have recovery on a Saturday.
“It’s hard for me to get back from Wigan to Leeds but when they were in the Championship I went to most midweek games. I’d love to go to a really good away-day, but my schedule doesn’t really tie in with that.”
During his time at the Rhinos, Hardaker became friendly with Whites captain Liam Cooper and his group of friends. Hardaker added: “We just kept in contact a little bit and I wish Liam good luck and sometimes he wishes me good luck, so it’s just nice to have people like that giving you a good message. I might message him and say ‘I’m going to be playing at Elland Road, do you fancy coming to watch?’”
Hardaker enjoyed a fine game for Matty Peet’s side against Wakefield by getting on the scoresheet and showing signs of his best form. He also combined effectively with England team-mate John Bateman on Wigan’s right edge. After a disappointing year by his own standards in 2021, Bateman appears ripe to hit top gear in a World Cup year.
“I think John and Faz (Liam Farrell) have probably been the best back-rowers in the league this year,” said Hardaker. “John’s performances last year weren’t bad but everyone expected him to set the league on fire. Having been tremendous in the NRL, I think he found his feet last year.
“Jai (Field) has obviously taken the headlines but you look at the work that John has done and he’s been really tough, competitive and that’s what Wigan is about. To play with players like that is why you sign for teams like Wigan. John and I have kind of grown up together. I know we’re a few years apart but when we went out drinking, I’d bump into him and his mates so we’ve known each other for quite some time.
“I know what his game is about and what he brings and I think he pretty much knows mine as well. To be alongside him is really good, so we’ll just building that combination throughout the season. The more we do it, the better it is for Wigan.”
Head coach Peet said of the relationship between Hardaker and Bateman: “I think they have got a good connection. They play well together and enjoy each other’s company.”
