Interesting twist in Zak Hardaker saga as Wigan chairman speaks out

Wigan Warriors chairman Ian Lenagan has revealed that he is “nervous” about Zak Hardaker moving closer to home.

Hardaker had been granted permission to look for a club nearer his home of Pontefract for 2022 and beyond, but nothing was forthcoming despite various rumours circulating about a potential move to Castleford Tigers.

However, despite the star fullback committing to Wigan for 2022, Lenagan is worried about the plan to commute from his current home to Wigan each day.

“He is part of the plans here,” Lenagan said.

“We’ve been very open about the Zak Hardaker situation. We’ve helped rehabilitate the reputation of Zak Hardaker in the last three years, and it’s cost us a lot of time and money – but he is worth it.”

Lenagan added: “We’re disappointed he’s moving back to West Yorkshire. We understand why he’s doing it, and it’s his choice. But we’re nervous of it, without a doubt. He has got another year left on his contract and we’re honouring it.”

It’s well known that Hardaker’s contract runs out at the end of 2022, but Wigan do hold an option in their favour and Lenagan believes he still might not leave then either.

“We gave him an option to look around and he hasn’t found anybody.. that tells you something.

“He’s made it very clear he’s going to work very hard, he’s going to have to get up much earlier and we hope it doesn’t impact on his game.