Matt Peet Dealt Blow as Wigan’s Rising Forward Hit with Two-Match Ban
Wigan, June 26, 2025 — Wigan Warriors coach Matt Peet has suffered a tactical blow after prop Harvie Hill, a rising star in the squad, was handed a two-match suspension. The disciplinary verdict follows a red card incident during the Warriors’ reserve fixture against St Helens, dealing a significant setback ahead of a crucial Super League clash.
Harvie Hill’s Red Card Incident
Hill, 21, was sent off in the closing stages of Wigan’s reserve game against arch-rivals St Helens last weekend for a high tackle. The match review panel charged him with a Grade D head contact offence, imposing 14 penalty points and triggering the suspension. Despite playing in the reserves, he had earned a spot in Wigan’s first-team squad ahead of this weekend’s game.
While the ban doesn’t affect the upcoming match against Castleford—since it starts next week—it throws a wrench into Peet’s rotation plans, particularly with several forwards already sidelined by injury.
Impact on Wigan’s Squad Depth
Hill’s unavailability compounds existing selection challenges. Key forwards Sam Walters, Luke Thompson, Patrick Mago, Liam Byrne, and Tyler Dupree have already been announced in the 21-man squad, yet Wigan head into the weekend thin on front-line options.
Coach Matt Peet must now rely heavily on a small group of starters, with limited reserve depth due to Hill’s absence and other injury concerns—highlighted by Walters’ leg break earlier this season.
Peet’s Tactical Dilemma
Peet, known for rotating sets to keep the squad fresh, now faces a crunch week. With limited forward options, his ability to manage fatigue across the squad is compromised—particularly with important games against Castleford and Leigh on the horizon.
He told reporters:
“Hill could’ve added some dynamic front-row minutes, but now we have to reshuffle and hope the lads step up. It’s going to test our depth.”
Rulebook Enforcement & Precedent
The ban underscores the RFL’s stern stance on head contact. Hill was charged 12 points for the head tackle and an additional three for causing injury. An automatic one-point deduction for the timing of the red card escalated his penalty total—signaling that even reserve-grade infractions have real consequences.
What Lies Ahead
- Forfeited rotation: Hill out for the next two matches, limiting fresh legs.
- Forward shuffle: Experienced props like Faro-Dawson Walker may see increased time.
- Injury management: With Walters out long-term, the clash against Castleford looms as a test of resilience.
Final Call
Harvie Hill’s ban adds another challenge for Matt Peet and Wigan Warriors at a critical point in the season. With forward depth stretched thin, the coach’s strategic choice in rotation will be key. It’s a reminder that discipline—even at reserve level—can ripple through a team’s entire campaign.
Let me know if you’d like an updated preview of the Castleford game or a detailed look at Wigan’s forward rotation strategy.
