Wade reflects on first appearance
Christian Wade has reflected on making his wigan warriors debut and playing his first rugby league minutes in a reserves win over castleford tigers.
Wade, who began training with the Warriors this week upon the conclusion of the Rugby Union Premiership season, played 52 minutes in Wigan’s 56-10 Reserves win at the Mend-A-Hose Jungle on Thursday night.
The former Wasps, Racing 92 and Gloucester winger, who spent three years with the Buffalo Bills as part of the NFL’s International Player Pathway programme, showcased his ability when accelerating away on the right side before passing inside to Farrimond, who scored his first of two tries.
Speaking to Love Rugby League post-match, Wade said: “That was my first game of rugby league and I enjoyed it. I got a few first and second carries and I’m still trying to figure out how I can get my hands on the ball some more. I’m just trying to nail the basics and understand the systems of how we want to attack.”
The 34-year-old scored twice in his final match for Gloucester last weekend before he trained with his new teammates for the first time on Wednesday ahead of his first appearance the following day.
On his first few days at the Club, Wade said: “That was my first training session with Wigan. It was like a team run, but more intense. I was relying on the boys to help direct me through the game and I had Nathan Lowe playing right centre next to me on the wing. It’s been such a fantastic experience.”
Reflecting on the move, Wade said: “Last Saturday I was playing for Gloucester and five days on, I’m here playing against Castleford Tigers – it’s surreal! It was a humbling experience and for my first hit-out, I loved it. I’m just embracing every moment and trying to give it my best.”
Looking ahead, Wade said: “I’m here to contribute in any way I can – I’ll be ready. [At the minute] I’m just going to be working and learning as much as I can.”
