WARRINGTON has named its first starting side of the year – and there was no sign of apparently unwanted fullback Matt Dufty.
Australian Dufty has been linked with a number of rival clubs, including York and Widnes – the Wolves pre-season rivals at Halliwell Jones Stadium on Friday.
The former St George Illawarra star lost his squad number to Cai Taylor-Wray during the off-season too.
Three new signings are in coach Sam Burgess’ starting 13: centre Josh Smith, second rower Kelepi Tangonoa and prop Liam Byrne.
Three more recruits, Albert Hopoate, Toafofoa Sipley and James Bentley, are missing. Sipley is still under suspension from the NRL.
📋 Early team news for our opening clash of 2026
Get your digital tickets for this Friday’s pre-season derby 👉 https://t.co/6bCEWJRTNc pic.twitter.com/fcVhf8CZZU
— Warrington Wolves (@WarringtonRLFC) January 5, 2026