Leigh Leopards may have to face their Super League opener against Wigan Warriors without one of their star players, Edwin Ipape. The Papua New Guinea international and talented hooker is racing against time to recover for the much-anticipated “Battle of the Borough” set for Thursday, February 13. Ipape, a pivotal player for the Leopards, underwent off-season surgery, which forced him to miss the Pacific Championship last autumn. His fitness remains uncertain, leaving fans and the team anxiously awaiting updates.
The 25-year-old has been a standout performer since joining Leigh, earning a place in the prestigious 2023 Super League Dream Team. Despite his impressive track record, injuries limited him to just 19 appearances last season. Head coach Adrian Lam recently addressed the situation, stating that Ipape is “50-50” for the season opener. While his recovery is progressing well, Lam emphasized the importance of ensuring he is fully prepared before returning to action to avoid further setbacks.
Leigh Leopards will be looking to build on their impressive 2024 campaign, where they reached the Super League semi-finals for the first time. Their journey included a thrilling victory over Salford Red Devils in the elimination play-offs, only to face a heavy defeat against Wigan in the next round. The absence of Ipape for the opener could pose a significant challenge as they seek to maintain their upward trajectory in the league.
Meanwhile, Wigan Warriors are also dealing with their own injury woes. Brad O’Neill, their first-choice hooker, is sidelined until at least April due to an ACL injury sustained last July. This development adds another layer of intrigue to the opening clash, as both teams navigate these early-season hurdles with key players missing.
As the countdown to the Super League opener continues, fans on both sides eagerly await the final squad announcements. For Leigh Leopards, Ipape’s potential absence would be a blow, but the team remains determined to deliver a strong performance. With the Brick Community Stadium set to host this thrilling derby, the stage is set for an unforgettable start to the 2025 season.
Leave a Reply