- St Helens have won the Super League title for the last four years.
- The new season starts on Thursday and this could be one of the tightest title races in recent years.
- Even though St Helens are favourites to lift the title again this season, there are several teams who could snatch the crown.
St Helens have won the Super League title for the last four years, and it’s obvious that they are in a position to lift the title again this season.
The new season starts on Thursday and this could be one of the tightest title races in recent years. It’s a brilliant time of the season and several teams are jockeying for position for a place in the Grand Final next autumn.
St Helens won the Super League title last year. Photo/ ESPN.
Even though St Helens are favourites to lift the title again this season, there are several teams who could snatch the crown. However, they will have to do something special to stop them from winning the title once again this season.
1. Leeds Rhinos
Leeds Rhinos have lost a few players in the out-of-season turnover. However, they are certain to be in the running following last season’s fast finish and appearance at the Grand Final.
Some of the players who have left Leeds include retiring captain Matt Prior, Tom Briscoe, Jack Broadbent, Brad Dwyer, Bodene Thompson, Liam Sutcliffe and Zak Hardaker. However, the team has been strengthened by the arrivals of exciting full-back Luke Hooley, Sam Lisone and Nene Macdonald.
Leeds’ star signing is Nene Macdonald, who arrived from Leigh after 22 tries in 22 appearances. He could be key in this Leeds team.
There is plenty of experience and young talent in Leeds Rhinos’ squad. With coach Rohan Smith in charge, this is one of the teams which could stop St Helens from winning the big prize this season.
2. Wigan Warriors
Wigan Warriors won the Challenge Cup last year after beating Huddersfield 16–14 on May 28, 2022, at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. The fact that they still have a bunch of quality players means that they could challenge St Helens for the Super League title this season.
Among the players who have left Wigan Warriors are Tommy Leuluai (retired) and John Bateman who has returned to the NRL. Wigan have filled the gap left behind by those two stars by signing Jake Wardle and Toby King.
Wigan Warriors have managed to retain Bevan French, who looked to be heading to Australia last season. Coach Matty Peet, who will be hoping to build on his mostly phenomenal first year as the boss, will be relying on Bevan and Jai Field to claim a title this season.
Wigan Warriors won the Challenge Cup last year. Photo/ Sky Sports.
3. Warrington Wolves
Warrington Wolves were in a disastrous form last season, and coach Daryl Powell knows very well that he has to impress this season.
The Wolves have made some major signings to ensure that Daryl Powell has no reason to flirt with the relegation zone this season. In fact, this team has the capability to stop St Helens from claiming their fifth Super League title in 2023.
The arrival of Sam Kasiano, Paul Vaughan, Gil Dudson and Josh McGuire has strengthened the squad. Warrington Wolves have to fire this season, otherwise, they will be looking for a new coach and reshuffle. But Daryl Powell is not likely going to allow such a thing to happen.
4. Catalans Dragons
At the start of every season, Catalans Dragons have shown the potential of claiming the Super League. However, they end up losing momentum on the way.
But under Steve McNamara, things have looked to be going in the right direction for the Catalans Dragons. As a result, it shouldn’t be a surprise to find their name among teams who could stop St Helens from lifting the Super League.
Despite losing several players like super-talented youngster Joe Chan, Josh Drinkwater, Gil Dudson and Dean Whare, they have made eye-catching signings. Siosiua Taukeiaho is undoubtedly the star signing and is expected to give them leadership and quality experience.
Coach Steve McNamara previously worked with Taukeiaho at Sydney Roosters and this is a signing we expect to have an impact on the team. The arrival of Tom Johnstone has also added strength to the squad. However, his main problem is injuries.
You must be logged in to post a comment Login