However, the clock is ticking, and Wigan’s management will need to act swiftly to secure a replacement for the departing fullback.
In a major blow to Wigan Warriors, star fullback Bevan French is reportedly
set to leave the club at the end of the 2024 season. French, who has been a key
figure in the Warriors’ resurgence in recent years, is said to be in advanced
talks with several NRL clubs, with the Cronulla Sharks and Sydney Roosters
emerging as the front-runners to secure his signature. While the news has yet
to be officially confirmed by Wigan, sources close to the situation suggest that
the departure of one of Super League’s most exciting players is imminent.
French’s potential move back to the NRL has sent shockwaves through the
rugby league world, with fans and pundits alike expressing surprise at the
timing of the decision. The 27-year-old has been an integral part of Wigan’s
success over the past few seasons, playing a pivotal role in the club’s attacking
play and solidifying his status as one of the most dangerous players in the
league. His speed, agility, and attacking flair have made him a fan favorite at
the DW Stadium, and his departure will leave a significant void in the
Warriors’ lineup.
A Desire to Return Home
Bevan French’s potential exit from Wigan Warriors appears to be driven by a
personal desire to return to Australia and be closer to his family. Despite his
success in Super League, French has long expressed a longing to return to the
NRL, the competition where he made a name for himself with the Parramatta
Eels before making the move to Wigan in 2020.
Sources close to French have revealed that he has been in regular contact with
his family in Australia and has been weighing up the prospect of rejoining the
NRL. While French has enjoyed his time in England, the desire to return home
and be closer to his loved ones has played a major role in his decision-making
process.
Additionally, French’s talent has not gone unnoticed in the NRL, with several
clubs keen to bring him back into the fold. The Cronulla Sharks and Sydney
Roosters have reportedly emerged as the front-runners to sign the fullback,
with both clubs eager to bolster their backline options ahead of the 2025
season.
Wigan Warriors Face a Major Challenge
For Wigan Warriors, French’s departure would mark a significant loss, both on
and off the field. The fullback has been a central figure in the team’s attack,
providing both finishing ability and playmaking prowess. His ability to break
the line and create opportunities for his teammates has been invaluable to
Wigan’s success, and replacing him will be no easy task for head coach Matt
Peet.
While the Warriors have several talented players in their ranks, French’s
unique skill set and attacking ability make him a rare commodity. Losing him
at the end of the 2024 season would leave a gap in the side that could take
time to fill. The club is already understood to be scouting potential
replacements, with several names reportedly on the radar to step into French’s
shoes.
Despite the setback, Wigan will be determined to maintain their
competitiveness in Super League and ensure that the squad remains strong for
the future. The club’s management is likely already planning for life after
French, and the search for a new fullback is expected to be a priority in the
coming months.
Cronulla Sharks and Sydney Roosters Lead the Charge
For Cronulla Sharks and Sydney Roosters, French’s potential availability
presents an exciting opportunity to strengthen their squads. Both clubs have
been on the lookout for a game-changing fullback, and French’s skill set would
be a perfect fit for their attacking systems.
The Sharks, in particular, have been looking to add an explosive attacking
presence to their backline, and French’s pace and vision could provide the
perfect complement to their existing talent. With the Sharks in the mix for his
signature, it seems they are serious contenders to land the dynamic fullback.
Similarly, the Sydney Roosters are no strangers to making big-name signings,
and the chance to bring French back into the NRL is an attractive prospect.
The Roosters have a history of signing top-tier talent, and French’s experience
in both the NRL and Super League would add valuable depth to their backline.
With a roster already brimming with talent, the addition of French could be
the final piece in the puzzle for the Roosters as they aim to compete for a
premiership in 2025.
What’s Next for Bevan French and Wigan Warriors?
As the end of the 2024 season draws closer, all eyes will be on Bevan French’s
next move. While Wigan Warriors have yet to confirm the reports, the
likelihood of his return to the NRL seems high. The Sharks and Roosters will
continue to battle it out for his signature, and it will be interesting to see where
French decides to play next.
For Wigan, the challenge will be replacing one of their most important players,
but the club has a proud history of overcoming adversity. The departure of
French may mark the end of one chapter, but it also represents an opportunity
for new stars to emerge and for Wigan to continue building toward a
successful future.
The 2024 season is far from over, and the Warriors will be hoping that French
can lead them to more glory before his departure.
