Return of 'world class' Oliver Gildart a boost for Wigan Warriors

Oliver Gildart is poised to end a 10-month injury layoff – and reclaim his place as one of the world’s best centres.
Wigan's Oliver GildartWigan's Oliver Gildart
Wigan's Oliver Gildart

Adrian Lam believes he is one of the top players in his position in rugby league.

And the Warriors boss says his return will give the side a boost as they look to tighten their grip on top spot.

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Gildart, set to face Hull KR on Thursday evening, hasn’t played since dislocating his shoulder in Great Britain’s opening Test at the end of last October.

Lam said: “Gilly has been at this club a long time and he’s one of the best centres not only in Super League, but in the world.

“Everyone is excited to have him back and we’re hoping he settles back into it in the next couple of weeks.”

Gildart, a two-time Grand Final winner with his hometown club, required shoulder surgery with his target on a return in the spring – only for the campaign to be halted by the coronavirus criss.

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The enforced lay-off also stalled his rehab, which is why he has yet to play since the season restarted.

It may not just be Warriors fans keeping a close eye on his return to action.

Gildart, 24, is contracted to Wigan for next season, but has a release clause allowing him to move to the NRL if an agreed, but undisclosed, transfer fee is paid.

New Zealand Warriors and Canterbury Bulldogs are thought to be interested.